In a statement today, Loke said he was disappointed with the operator’s rushed decision to increase fares.

He said the transport ministry secured approval from the finance ministry on Friday to provide diesel subsidies for ferry operators on major islands nationwide, starting Jan 1, 2025.

“I am deeply disappointed with the hasty decision made by the Langkawi ferry operator.

“They will not be eligible to receive the diesel subsidy if they proceed with raising fares, especially for locals and domestic tourists,” he said.

Loke’s remarks follow reports that ferry ticket prices for round-trip services from Kuala Kedah and Kuala Perlis to Langkawi will increase between RM3 and RM10.50 from next month.

Langkawi Ferry Line Ventures’ operations manager Norhafiz Abdul Wahid was quoted as saying that the fare for local tourists will go up by RM3 for adults, while foreign tourists will have to pay RM10.50 more.

Fares for children and Langkawi residents will also go up, but the rates for senior citizens and the disabled remain unchanged.