BUTTERWORTH: In an attempt to sustain its loss-making ferry operations between Pengkalan Sultan Abdul Halim terminal on the mainland and the Raja Tun Uda terminal on the island, Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPSB) has requested the federal government to provide it with a fuel subsidy.

The ferry operator said the subsidy would ease its financial burden, as it incurs RM14 million in losses annually.

Following a dialogue with PPSB officials, state Public Works and Utilities Committee chairman Lim Hock Seng said the operator had written several letters to the federal government on the matter.

"I think the federal government should consider the request, as it will lessen PPSB's financial burden."

Lim said PPSB operated six ferries and conducts a total of 120 trips daily. Each trip costs RM421, but only RM350 are earned in ticket collections.
In addition to its regular service, PPSB places one ferry on standby in the event that congestion on the Penang Bridge needs to be alleviated.

Lim said he had visited the Pengkalan Sultan Abdul Halim ferry terminal here yesterday after complaints were made by the Consumers' Association of Penang.

He said PPSB had taken steps to upgrade its services. They include replacement of damaged chairs, ceiling fans, toilets and escalators.

PPSB is also waiting for the federal government to complete Penang Sentral which will house the main railway and bus stations and connect with the ferry terminal.