Penang’s Water Taxi Service Delayed Over Safety Concerns

Penang’s dream of a water taxi service will have to wait a little longer. Transport Minister Anthony Loke explained that while private companies have shown interest, there are still significant technical and safety hurdles that need to be cleared before such a service can take off.

“Any form of transport, especially at sea, has to put safety first. Approvals aren’t just a matter of getting a boat as it involves multiple agencies, including the Malaysia Marine Department (MMD) and the Penang Port Commission, need to sign off

“A water taxi service isn’t just boats. You also need jetties, proper landing points, and coordination with the state government,” he told Bernama.

The minister emphasized that the government is open to private investment in water taxis, as long as all licensing and safety requirements are met. 

This comes after the Penang City Council previously canceled a request for proposal for a water taxi service when a company failed to secure the necessary approvals from the Ministry of Transport.