THE new ferry services (catamarans) that were introduced on Aug 7 to connect the Sultan Abdul Halim terminal on the mainland and the Raja Tun Uda terminal on the Penang island can be expanded to other parts of the state as well.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke has proposed a broader ferry network, highlighting the need to consider additional destinations beyond the Butterworth-George Town route.
“It can be explored to other destinations within Penang. There are other locations that can cater to this ferry service provided suitable jetties are available.
“We should not be too rigid by only connecting Butterworth and George Town.
“We need to be creative in exploring other places where this ferry service could meet the demand.
“In fact, I have also held a discussion with the ferry operator Penang Port Commission (PPC) regarding the feasibility of expanding the ferry network,” he told reporters after launching the new ferry operations at the Raja Tun Uda ferry terminal in George Town today.
Present to grace the ceremony were Penang Governor Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, state executive councillors, and other distinguished guests.
After the launch, they embarked on a ferry ride that last approximately 15 minutes.
The new fleet of four ferries costing RM80 million offers a free ride until Sept 6. The ferries are named Teluk Bahang, Teluk Kampi, Teluk Duyung and Teluk Kumbar.
Loke said the ferries can also be chartered for other private or corporate events’ purposes.
“It is up to PPC to decide as they are the ferries’ operator. This initiative can spur the state’s tourism growth,” he said, adding that such plans would boost Penang as one of the main tourism spots.
On the iconic ferries, Loke pointed out there were plans to establish the vessels as one of the tourism products in the state.
“We need to discuss further with the Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPSB). Any private operators are also welcomed if they are keen on such initiative,” he said.
On the ridership since Aug 7, Loke added that the ferry service had recorded an overwhelming response.
“On the first week itself, about 50,000 passengers used the ferries. On top of that, about 18,667 motorcycles and 264 bicycles were recorded as well.
“The highest number of people using the ferries was recorded during the polling day on Aug 12. About 11,000 passengers were recorded taking ferries,” he said.
Loke also said that each ferry ride takes about 10 minutes.
“The frequency can be added if the demand is high,” he said, saying the new ferries’ fare are still being finalised.
Earlier, Chow thanked the Transport Ministry, PPSB and PPC for their collaboration in advancing the state’s transportation sector.
He said the launch of the new ferry operations in the state is a significant step forward for the state’s transportation sector.
“It is a testament to our commitment to providing the people of Penang with safe, reliable, and efficient modes of transportation.
“The new ferries will not only provide a more convenient way for people to travel but also reduce the traffic congestion on the roads,” he said.
According to Chow, the new ferry operations can also help to provide job opportunities and lift the state’s economy.
“We will strive to lead Penang to become of the main investment hubs for investors,” he added.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi & M.Vekenesvaran
Video by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis