New Penang Ferry Begins Operations

The much-anticipated new ferry service from Pangkalan Raja Tun Uda (PRTU) in this city to Pangkalan Sultan Abdul Halim (PSAH) in Butterworth began full operations yesterday (Aug 8), New Straits Times reported.

Chow Kon Yeow, the caretaker chief minister of Penang, stated that the four new ferries, Teluk Bahang, Teluk Kampi, Teluk Duyung, and Teluk Kumbar, operate 68 two-way daily trips every 20 minutes during peak hours and every 30 minutes during non-peak hours.

He added that both terminals have been upgraded to provide passengers with comfort while they wait for their ferry, and that the waiting area has an air-conditioning system, security cameras, and lift facilities for people with disabilities (OKU).

"I am aware that the issue among passengers prior to this was the unpleasant waiting area conditions." So, starting today, we will notice a significant change," he told NST following the launch of the new ferry service at PRTU.

He also added that ferry commuters will receive free shuttle service from today until September 7, and that each ferry can accommodate 150 passengers and 50 motorcycles at any given time.

Chow also stated that he would investigate the use of water taxis to connect parts of the island and Seberang Perai as a faster way to travel along the long coastline.

"The state government will work with the transport ministry to investigate a more efficient water-based transportation system," he said.