In response to increasing petrol prices, the ferry schedule in Langkawi will soon undergo significant changes. Dr. Baharin Baharom, General Manager of Ferry Line Ventures Sdn Bhd, announced that the revision of the ferry timetable is necessary to reduce potential losses faced by ferry operators on the island.
Currently, the ferry service operates five trips per day, but this will be reduced to three trips daily. This alteration comes as local ferry operators aim to maintain their financial viability amid escalating operational costs. Despite offering fares at 88 sen per nautical mile, reportedly lower than prices charged by ferry services to other major islands like Pulau Pangkor and Pulau Tioman, which charge RM2, local operators are feeling the strain of rising expenses.
On March 17, ferry operators from the Peninsula, Sabah, and Sarawak convened with the Ministry of Transport to discuss these operational challenges. However, an official decision from the ministry regarding the new fare structure or any additional measures has yet to be announced.
The primary objective of these changes is not only to ensure the sustainability of the Langkawi ferry services but also to minimize adverse effects on local tourism. As the island continues to attract visitors, operators are hopeful that these adjustments will help maintain both their livelihoods and the tourist influx that benefits the local economy.
As the situation develops, travelers and residents alike are encouraged to stay informed about changes to the ferry schedule and any announcements from the Ministry of Transport.
Source: BERNAMA
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