KUALA LUMPUR: The Cabinet has approved a 10 per cent increase in bus fares under the economic service category for the coming Hari Raya Aidilfitri festivities.
In a statement, the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) said the surcharge of RM0.009 sen per kilometre which will increase the bus fare rate to RM0.102 per kilometre.
APAD also said it has opened applications for a Temporary Operator Licence (LPS) to ensure sufficient bus services in conjunction with next month's festivities.
Applications for the LPS are open to all eligible bus operators from March 11 to April 2 to accommodate the increase in passengers returning to their hometowns during the festive season.
It said the LPS validity period for all approved applications is from April 4 to 17, adding that all applications can be submitted to the Regional Offices and APAD counters at the Road Transport Department office.
Applicants for the LPS must comply with the provisions including:
i. Comply with the policies and specifications of the Express Bus license class;
ii. Equipped with a GPS;
iii. The age limit of use for buses does not exceed 10 years;iv. Limited to economic service types only;
v. Express buses and sightseeing buses that exceed the age limit of use and have received the approval of the Special Puspakom VR1 Report (Code 9009) are allowed to apply."
Accordingly, APAD invites all interested operators to make an application.
APAD also calls on all operators to always provide quality service, adhere to the fare schedule and travel schedule, guarantee the safety of users, and ensure that bus drivers comply with regulations.
It said action can be taken against operators who violate their license conditions under the Land Public Transport Act 2010.