Kota Kinabalu: The State Government should be prepared to take over management of a privatised Labuan-Menumbok ferry if negotiations between the Ministry of Transport and the ferry operators reach a deadlock.
Kuamut Assemblyman Datuk Masiung Banah said the move by roll on-roll off (ro-ro) ferry operators to increase the fares of private vehicles by between 42.5 and 73.3 per cent from January 1, next year is inappropriate when the people are struggling with the high cost of living.
“We understand the wishes of ferry operators who want to increase profits, but the new Unity Government must be in line with its mission to overcome the cost of living issue for the people.
“If the ferry operator insists on not lowering the new fare rate, then the State Government needs to have other incentives to take over the transport operation under the supervision of the Sea Marine Department,” he said in a statement, Thursday.
Masiung, who is also Sabah Housing and Urban Development Board (LPPB) Chairman, also urged the Ministry of Transport to study the issue because there is dissatisfaction among the public.
However, he said, if the ferry operator’s reasons are relevant, the Government may need to provide fuel subsidies to operators as a measure to maintain the existing fare pricing.
Masiung proposed that if the Government agrees, motorists can also be given fare subsidies as given to individual passengers before.
On Wednesday, Bernama reported Labuan Mainland Sdn Bhd Chairman Datuk Chin Hong Voi as saying said the increase was to cover maintenance costs, including fuel prices and the implementation of the minimum wage.
The fare increase which is 42.5 per cent involves private and commercial vehicles, while 73.3 per cent involves high-powered motorcycles.
However, he said the fare increase does not involve commercial vehicles, including trucks and trailers.
Chin explained that the company’s four ferries operate five to eight trips a day.
— EDITOR