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The Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) system’s new livery design, reflecting Sarawak’s aspirations and strength, was unveiled by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg during the Sarawak Day 2024 celebration at the Old Bintulu Airport.
“Several designs were proposed by the Sarawak Ministry of Transport and Sarawak Metro, but only one was selected to reflect the aspirations and strength of Sarawak,” Abang Johari said.
“Today, on this meaningful day for all Sarawakians, I am very proud to share the visuals of the final design of the Kuching ART. At this moment, the ART vehicles are being manufactured in China for us in Sarawak.”
ART design symbolising strength and aspiration
The Kuching ART design features a sleek black roof and window frames, highlighted by a striking yellow band that flows from the bottom section of the driver’s compartment, above the windows on both sides, and back down to the other driver’s compartment.
A wide band of white, topped with a red stripe, adorns the bottom section of the sides of the ART vehicle, symbolising the state’s vibrant culture and forward-looking vision.
The zero-emissions hydrogen-powered ART is set to transform Sarawak’s public transportation system, starting with the Kuching Urban Transportation System Project (KUTS).
“The ART system will extend to Bintulu, connecting to Tanjung Kidurong and Samalaju,” Abang Johari added.
Transforming public transport in Sarawak
Sarawak Metro, a subsidiary of the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC), is responsible for developing, operating, and maintaining the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS).
The project is being developed in phases, with Phase 1 consisting of the Blue Line, the Red Line, and the Green Line.
The Blue Line will cover 27.6 km from Rembus in Kota Samarahan to Hikmah Exchange in the city centre, while the Green Line will span 30 km from Pending to Damai.
Phase 1 of the KUTS project is set to begin passenger service in stages from the fourth quarter of 2025, with completion expected by the end of 2027.
“Currently, Sarawak Metro is diligently working on constructing special tracks, stop stations, and depots for the ART in Kuching and Kota Samarahan,” said Abang Johari.
“God willing, as I mentioned, we will extend from Bintulu directly to Kidurong and Samalaju.”
The backbone of the KUTS project will be ART vehicles, supported by feeder buses, both powered by green hydrogen.
This initiative aligns with Sarawak’s commitment to decarbonisation and advancing the hydrogen economy.
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