Those who frequent public transport within the Klang Valley will be familiar with Metrobus. The company has been around since the early 1990s, but word is that it may soon be forced to close its doors.
According to a report by the Malay Mail, only 45 buses make up Metrobus’ current fleet, a far cry from the initial 425 buses it had 24 years ago. The company’s executive chairman, Ahmad Shah Wadood said it was necessary to sell its assets to keep the company buoyant.
He said that introduction of free bus services in Kuala Lumpur and other areas, such as the Selangor Smart Bus and Petaling Jaya City Council’s (MBPJ) community bus service, are responsible for the decline.
Furthermore, the company has not been receiving money from the Interim Stage Bus Scheme Fund (ISBSF) despite numerous requests. The ISBSF, which ran from 2012, is an initiative by the Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD) to assist bus operators that are operating less profitable routes to continue providing their services to the public.
“We never received any official response,” Ahmad said. “We were told we are not entitled to the funds because we have a franchise licence from the Domestic Trade and Consumerism Ministry.” Currently, Metrobus services five routes in Puchong. This was because the company was told by SPAD to stop servicing routes under the Bus Network Revamp that was announced late last year.
What are your thoughts on the matter? Should the authorities do more to assist companies like Metrobus so it can continue to provide its bus services? Or will the revamp of the bus network in the Klang Valley see the extinction of these long-existing bus operators?
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AI-generated Summary ✨
Many comments express relief and happiness about Metrobus's potential closure, citing issues like poor maintenance, reckless driving, poor cleanliness, and poor service quality. Several commenters highlight how the bus company brought a negative image, with accusations of rude drivers, environmental pollution, and safety concerns. Some suggest that privatization and monopoly practices led to unprofitable, low-quality services. Overall, sentiments are largely negative, viewing the shutdown as a positive step for public safety, environment, and better transportation alternatives.