LABUAN, April 13 (Bernama) -- Frustration continues to mount among motorists using the roll-on/roll-off (ro-ro) ferry services between Labuan and Menumbok, as long-standing issues with the poor surface conditions at both ferry terminals remain unresolved.
Motorists, particularly those with vehicles featuring low front spoilers, have repeatedly voiced concerns over damage sustained while embarking or disembarking, due to uneven and steep inclines at the ramps - an issue which becomes especially problematic during low tide.
“This has been going on for years… every time I take the ferry, I hold my breath going over the ramp,” said Jason Lim, a frequent commuter.
“My car’s spoiler got torn off last year, and nothing has changed since then,” he said, adding that the issue stems from a lack of proper maintenance of the terminal landing surfaces.
He added that the transition from the jetty to the ferry is far from smooth, due to the uneven surface at the landing point, which becomes increasingly difficult to navigate during tidal changes.
Several other motorists echoed similar frustrations, noting that the issue has been repeatedly raised over the years, with no visible improvements.
“We pay landing fees at the Menumbok Ferry Terminal, yet every trip risks damage to our vehicles,” said Siti Noraini, a Labuan resident.
Public calls are mounting for the Sabah Ports and Harbour Department and Labuan Marine Department to urgently resurface the landing zones, and redesign ferry ramps to better accommodate low-clearance vehicles such as modern sedans and hatchbacks.
Local tour agent, Monica Francis, highlighted that, with both tourism and commerce relying heavily on the smooth flow of vehicles between the island and the mainland, the problem is more than just a nuisance - it’s a significant barrier to safe and reliable transport.
“Until proper repairs and upgrades are made, motorists will continue to bear the cost of what they see as an entirely avoidable issue,” she said.
--BERNAMA
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