FREE BUS SERVICE FROM KOMTAR TO BUKIT BENDERA FROM FEB 16 TO 19

GEORGE TOWN, Jan 28 (Bernama) -- The Penang Hill shuttle bus service between Komtar and Bukit Bendera Station here will operate free of charge for four days starting from Feb 16 to 19 in conjunction with the upcoming school holidays.

The Penang Hill Corporation (PBBPP) in a statement announced that the service, which will start from 9 am to 9 pm with a frequency of eight trips daily, is being implemented in collaboration with Rapid Bus Sdn Bhd as well as support from the state government.

PBBPP informed that passengers can easily identify the shuttle bus as it will be clearly marked as "Penang Hill Free Shuttle Service" and the pick-up and drop-off points will feature clear visuals to make the shuttle service easily recognisable.

"The main objective of the initiative is to reduce traffic congestion in the area around Bukit Bendera and it also aims to promote green initiatives by reducing carbon emissions in the state in line with the state's Penang 2030 Vision to create a Smart and Green Family-Centric State Inspired by the Nation," according to the statement.

According to PBBPP, to date, more than 10,000 passengers have used the service and the number of passengers has increased significantly each year with an increase of 45.7 per cent during the Chinese New Year from 2024 to 2025 and an overall growth of about 82 per cent since its launch.

"The consistent increase in the number of passengers highlights the popularity of the free shuttle service among locals and visitors and it also shows the success of PBBPP's efforts in improving accessibility and encouraging the use of public transport to reduce traffic congestion," it said.

Apart from reducing traffic congestion, the shuttle service aims to improve the overall visitor experience by reducing travel time and avoiding the hassle of finding a way and parking.        

-- BERNAMA