Sarawak to Turn on the Electric Bus Switch

According to a report in The Star Online, Sarawak will make the move to electric buses for its public transportation system, starting at the state capital of Kuching, in its quest to reduce carbon emissions in the city.  

Chief Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg said the Government's aim to increase use of zero-emission public transportation will additionally see the introduction of hydrogen fuel-cell buses. These buses are due to be introduced at the end of the year with 3 such buses being required for its pilot project.

The Star Online has reported that the proposed Stage Bus Service Transformation (SBST) programme will see the introduction of 130 buses. These 130 buses will be covering 27 routes across the city including Kota Samarahan, Batu Kawa, Samajaya, Santubong and Telaga Air.  

Abang Johari said the state has rejected SPAD's proposal of using diesel-powered buses and will allocate funds to implement the SBST programme here using electric buses instead, indicating the state’s commitment to reducing its carbon emissions.

"We have deliberated on the matter and decided that all buses for public transportation will use clean energy. The higher cost of electric buses means that SPAD might allocate fewer buses for Kuching but the important part is that we are looking to cut urban pollution and become more environmentally friendly," Abang Johari The Star Online after opening the new premises of Inter-Continental Travel Centre Sdn Bhd.