Senator proposes revival of Feri Malaysia service

Senator Datuk Ahmad Ibrahim has called for the revival of the Feri Malaysia ferry service, which connected Peninsular Malaysia with the East Malaysian states of Sarawak and Sabah.

The service operated from 1986 to 1989.

Potential benefits and challenges

Ahmad, a member of Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) from Padawan district near Kuching, sees numerous advantages to re-establishing this sea route across the South China Sea.

He proposes starting with a pilot service connecting Kuching with either Johor Bahru or Kuala Lumpur.

With the completion of the Trans Borneo Highway, travel between Kuching and Kota Kinabalu can be facilitated by road.

“This holds immense potential for domestic tourism and national integration, fostering stronger bonds between people from both sides of the country,” Ahmad remarked during his address on the 2024 Royal Address in Dewan Negara.

The service was originally discontinued in the late 1980s due to financial constraints.

However, Senator Ibrahim believes Feri Malaysia could offer a unique travel adventure for those seeking to explore both regions with their vehicles.

A look back at Feri Malaysia

The concept of ferries connecting the peninsula and East Malaysia may be unfamiliar.

This ferry service, operational from 1986 to 1989, offered a cruise-like experience with the ability to transport passengers and vehicles.

The journey from Kuantan to Kota Kinabalu took approximately two days.

The brainchild of Malaysia’s 5th Prime Minister, Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, Feri Malaysia was envisioned as a way to strengthen connections between Peninsular and East Malaysian residents.

Inspired by successful ferry services in Scandinavian countries, Dr. Mahathir commissioned a detailed study by the National Shipping Corporation Limited (PNSL) in 1982.

PNSL subsequently established Ferry Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. in 1984, even appointing a European expert as General Manager and project advisor.

Despite the initial investment of RM50 million (approximately US$12 million in 1984), the service ceased operations after only four years.

While Ahmad’s proposal has sparked renewed interest, questions remain regarding the financial viability and logistics of reviving Feri Malaysia in the modern era.

Ahmad’s call for the revival of Feri Malaysia has reignited discussions about this once-dormant transportation option.

While the potential benefits for tourism and national integration are undeniable, a thorough feasibility study is needed to assess the financial viability and operational challenges of re-establishing this sea route.