CJMY
Penang has eagerly anticipated the arrival of four new ferries, each valued at RM18 million, which have finally docked at Butterworth Wharf after their journey from the Haiphong shipyard in Vietnam.
The ferries, named Teluk Kumbar, Teluk Bahang, Teluk Duyung, and Teluk Kampi, arrived on the cargo vessel MV Happy Star.
This significant development marks a new chapter in Penang’s transportation system and is expected to enhance the ferry service experience for residents and visitors alike.
Watch the video by The Star
Upgraded ferry service to boost transportation in Penang
Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPSB) CEO, Datuk Sasedharan Vasudevan, announced that the two ferries will be towed by tugboat to the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) on the island, while the remaining two will stay on the mainland.
The new ferries are set to commence operations in August, serving the upgraded Raja Tun Uda terminal on the island and the newly constructed Pengkalan Sultan Abdul Halim terminal on the mainland.
The investment in the new ferries and terminal upgrades by PPSB totals RM100 million, showcasing the commitment to provide modern and efficient transportation services in Penang.
The arrival of the ferries signifies a significant milestone in improving connectivity between the island and the mainland, catering to the growing demand for safe and comfortable transportation options.
Enhanced features and improved travel experience
The new ferries, with a capacity of 250 passengers and 50 two-wheelers each, will revolutionize the ferry service experience in Penang. Unlike the classic ferries, the new vessels are not designed for cars, allowing for a more streamlined and efficient boarding process.
The shorter travel time of approximately 10 minutes from Butterworth to the island will match the current ferries’ speed and surpass the 20-minute journey on the classic ferries.
Datuk Sasedharan Vasudevan further revealed that the Raja Tun Uda ferry terminal on the island is undergoing upgrades to enhance passenger comfort and convenience.
The improvements include a spacious 400 sqm facility with 25 retail outlets, an air-conditioned waiting area equipped with WiFi and phone chargers, and facilities tailored for the needs of the disabled (OKU-friendly). These enhancements aim to elevate the overall ferry service experience and provide passengers with modern amenities.
On the mainland side, the newly operational Sultan Abdul Halim terminal has been serving commuters since October 2022. Presently, fast boats connect the Butterworth terminal to the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal on the island.
The addition of the new ferries will provide an alternative and efficient mode of transportation, meeting the increasing demand for seamless travel between Penang’s bustling areas.
Source: The Star
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