GEORGE TOWN: Rapid Bus Sdn Bhd has defended the implementation of the free charter bus service to Penang Hill, stating that it has no impact on Rapid Penang’s daily operations. The company said the service, funded by the Penang Hill Corporation (PBBPP), was carefully organised based on realistic fleet capacity and operational readiness.
Its Acting Chief Executive Officer, Ku Jamil Zakaria, clarified that claims suggesting Rapid Penang is unable to sustain normal routes due to the special service are inaccurate. According to him, the company retains sufficient buses to operate existing routes smoothly while supporting the Penang Hill initiative.
He assured that all regular Rapid Penang routes continue to run as normal, with service levels maintained consistently. The free shuttle operates every 90 minutes during the promotional period, ensuring efficient fleet deployment without compromising the needs of daily commuters.
Passengers also retain the option of using existing Rapid Penang Route 204, which continues to provide services to Penang Hill at intervals between 35 and 45 minutes during peak periods. This ensures public accessibility remains uninterrupted.
Rapid Bus reiterated its long-term commitment to enhancing the public transport system in Penang while working closely with state authorities to encourage greater utilisation of public transportation. The initiative is viewed as part of broader tourism support efforts while promoting sustainable mobility.
However, the Penang Public Transport Users Association (PeTUA) remains unconvinced. Its secretary, Zulfikar Ali Abdul Aziz, previously claimed that Rapid Penang is already operating with a limited number of buses and vans. Allocating additional vehicles for special programmes, he argued, could risk lowering service quality.
PeTUA suggested that instead of utilising Rapid Penang buses, state authorities could consider hiring private charter buses, worker transportation services or school buses via special permits. The association also rejected the idea that short programme duration is a valid reason to overlook potential disruptions faced by daily commuters.
The exchange of statements highlights differing perspectives between service operators and commuter representatives. While PeTUA emphasises long-term resource limitations, Rapid Bus insists its planning and operational control are strong enough to prevent service disruption.
For now, the company assures passengers that Rapid Penang services remain stable, fully functional and adequately supported. Commuters are encouraged to continue using public transport with confidence as Penang continues efforts to enhance mobility and tourism appeal.