The government has committed RM1.9 billion to enhancing public transportation by acquiring new diesel and electric buses for the Klang Valley and Penang. The initiative aims to modernise the existing fleet and improve connectivity for commuters.
According to NST, Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan announced that the first batch of 310 diesel buses will be delivered in June, followed by 250 electric buses by the end of the year. Additionally, a further 1,100 electric buses, along with their charging infrastructure, will be introduced in phases.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke highlighted that the new buses will replace aging vehicles currently operated by Rapid Bus Sdn Bhd. Some of the existing buses in service have been in operation for over a decade, necessitating their replacement.
Expansion of Rapid KL On-Demand Service
In a related development, Loke announced plans to expand the Rapid KL On-Demand service, which currently operates in 37 zones with a fleet of 110 vans serving both Rapid KL and Rapid Penang. The number of vehicles will be increased to 320 by June, significantly boosting the service’s capacity.
At present, the service records a daily ridership of over 4,000 passengers. With the additional vans, daily ridership is expected to surge to 36,000. Originally launched in May 2023 as Demand Responsive Transit (DRT), the service was rebranded as Rapid KL On-Demand in February this year. Initially designed to replace underutilized bus routes, it has since evolved into a key support system for major routes, offering flexible and dynamic connectivity for users.
New Open Payment System Introduced
From today, Rapid KL On-Demand users can pay their fares using debit and credit cards, following the introduction of a new open payment system. Loke stated that this new option aims to enhance convenience and streamline the payment process for commuters.
“With this new payment method, users no longer need to worry about insufficient balances on their Touch ‘n Go cards. This will directly improve the overall customer experience with Rapid KL services,” he said.
The system will be implemented in stages, starting with seven zones where 20 vans have been equipped with card scanners. Existing vans will gradually be upgraded, with full integration expected to be completed by May.
Previously, payment options were limited to the Touch ‘n Go Card, MyRapid Concession Card, OKU Smile Travel Pass, and Unlimited Travel Passes such as My50, MyCity, and Family Pass. The introduction of the open payment system marks a significant step toward a more seamless and user-friendly public transport experience.
