Penang’s New Ferry: Social media buzzes with excitement

Penang’s new ferry has been causing a buzz on social media after images of the Teluk Bahang ferry, with its name imprinted on the exterior, appeared on a video.

While some eagerly anticipate the arrival of the new vessel, others are concerned about what will happen to the old boats and hope they will be allowed to resume service.

The first of four new ferries were expected to be delivered between June and August and have since been ready in Vietnam for water testing before being sent to Penang for additional testing before entering into operation.

Due to their high maintenance costs, the old double-decker ferries that could carry people and cars were retired in 2021.

Late last year, the Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPSB) chairman, Datuk Tan Teik Cheng, said that 40% of the components and design of the new ferries had already been completed and would be ready for operation by June 2023.

Earlier this month, Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook announced that the new Vietnam-made ferries would be operational from August 1, bringing a new impetus to consumers who use the ferry service to travel between Penang Island and the mainland.

However, on calls to bring back the iconic old ferries, he said it would only be possible after the changes made to the terminals to suit the current fleet of fast ferries.

The new ferries will provide an excellent service for foot passengers, with modern and efficient vessels that will improve the overall customer experience. PPSB believes rejuvenating the Penang ferry service will boost the local economy and make travelling between the island and the mainland more accessible and convenient.

For decades, Penang’s iconic old ferry service was an essential part of the transportation system between Penang Island and the mainland. These double-decker ferries could carry passengers and vehicles across the channel, making them an essential link for many who travel between the island and the mainland.

However, due to the high maintenance costs of the ageing fleet, the service was retired in 2021. This decision was met with mixed feelings from the public, with many expressing nostalgia for the old ferries while others welcomed the introduction of newer, faster vessels. Despite the old fleet’s retirement, the old ferry’s iconic image is still a well-known symbol of Penang’s transportation history.