DELAYED LABUAN-KK FERRY SERVICE RESUMPTION: ACADEMICIAN, YOUTH COUNCIL HOPEFUL FOR AMICABLE SOLUTION

LABUAN, Jan 16 (Bernama) -- The resumption of the Labuan-Kota Kinabalu-Labuan ferry express services has been delayed due to a technical issue, but it is expected to be resolved amicably.

This situation, which involves coordination between the federal government and the Sabah state government, is not seen as a major concern, given the strong relationship between the two administrations.

The Labuan Youth Council (MBL) and a local academician share this sentiment, highlighting the importance of a cooperative approach in resolving the issue.

According to them, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Dr. Zaliha Mustafa has been actively working to improve Labuan’s connectivity. The reinstatement of the ferry service, after a hiatus of more than three years, is viewed as a strategic step to provide alternative transportation options between the island and Sabah's mainland.

Assoc Prof Dr Romzi Ationg of Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) said the issue should be handled by the government without external interference, which could lead to public misconceptions.

“Dr Zaliha should be given full support to bring about the necessary changes to Labuan as a federal territory. 

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“The reinstatement of the ferry express will yield economic benefits, so it’s crucial that all parties work together to support this initiative and avoid criticism that could hinder progress,” he told Bernama today.

MBL president Nazera Roslan highlighted the economic and tourism advantages of restoring the ferry service. 

“The local community stands to benefit from the resumption of the direct ferry route to Kota Kinabalu, which offers a shorter travel time compared to the current route through Menumbok Jetty,” she said.

Nazera expressed confidence in the government’s ability to resolve the technical issue swiftly, stressing that the youth community trusts the government’s approach to handling the situation.

“This is a minor technical matter that can be resolved without turning it into a controversy,” she said.

Nazera said the resumption of the ferry express service is anticipated to boost Labuan’s economic and tourism sectors, providing a vital connection for both locals and visitors.

The resumption of ferry express services was initially scheduled for Dec 15 but was delayed due to the unsafe jetty structure at Jesselton Point, Kota Kinabalu.

--BERNAMA