MOT & State Govt. Collaboration Needed To Expand Kelantan's MRD Bus Service

The chairman of E-Mutiara Berhad, Che Ibrahim Che Ismail, has requested the Ministry of Transport (MOT) to consider expanding the fleet of Mutiara Rentas Desa (MRD) mini buses in Kelantan, following positive reception from local commuters.

Che Ibrahim went on to further highlight the need for collaboration between E-Mutiara Berhad with the state government to make this expansion possible, specifically in the development of necessary infrastructure such as bus stations and stops along each route.

This request comes in the wake of a visit from the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) and the Chief Minister of Kelantan, Datuk Mohd Nassuruddin Daud, who have discussed this initiative.

The state government has been urged to ensure the availability of adequate infrastructure before any increase in the number of buses is implemented. According to Che Ibrahim, although currently there are no dedicated bus stations or stops, the state government has taken steps through executive council meetings and directives to local authorities to begin developing these facilities.

E-Mutiara currently operates 27 MRD minibuses covering 13 routes across Kelantan, with plans to introduce an additional 14 minibuses. These new buses are expected to serve all districts in Kelantan, including new routes to areas like Kampung Raja and Besut in Terengganu.

The expansion reflects the growing demand for the service, which has already seen over 60,000 passengers since its inception in February 2022.

Source: Bernama