Rapid Bus Sdn Bhd has denied claims that the introduction of free charter buses to Penang Hill will compromise the availability of Rapid Penang’s regular services. The company clarified that all operational needs were carefully assessed before the initiative was launched.
Acting CEO Ku Jamil Zakaria said the initiative, funded by the Penang Hill Corporation (PBBPP), has been planned comprehensively, with no impact on Rapid Penang’s current fleet distribution.
He explained that all existing routes will continue operating normally, and there remains an adequate number of buses to maintain service frequency.
In response to concerns raised by the Penang Public Transport Users Association (PeTUA), Ku Jamil reiterated that Rapid Penang services remain stable and unaffected.
PeTUA, however, maintained its stance that Rapid Penang has not had sufficient buses since at least 2023. Its secretary, Zulfikar Ali Abdul Aziz, suggested that alternative charter arrangements could have been made rather than using Rapid Penang buses.
Despite the differing opinions, Rapid Bus assured the public that daily services remain uninterrupted and encourages continued use of public transport.