State agriculture, plantation and transport committee chairman Dzowahir Ab Ghani said a detailed study must be conducted to ensure the sustainable operations of the company, Bernama reported.

“The establishment of a state-owned ferry company requires detailed consideration in terms of operational costs, commercial competitiveness, as well as management and technical support.

“God willing, if the findings of this study are favourable, it will particularly benefit Langkawi residents who have been affected by a shortage of ferry services,” he was quoted as saying during the state assembly’s debate on the royal address today.

The ferry service for Langkawi is currently operated by Langkawi Ferry Line Ventures Sdn Bhd.

Dzowahir added that the state is open to collaboration with private firms or interested parties to help set up the service.

Separately, he said the state has held talks with the transport ministry on relocating the Kuala Kedah Passenger Jetty Terminal further offshore to avoid issues caused by shallow water.