Penang launches new ferry service with free rides until Sep 6

The island of Penang celebrated a significant milestone yesterday, August 7, with the official launch of its brand new ferry service. The modern ferries promise to revolutionize the transportation system in Penang, offering enhanced convenience and improved experiences for both residents and tourists.

Operating between the upgraded Raja Tun Uda terminal on the island and the new terminal at Pengkalan Sultan Abdul Halim on the mainland, this new ferry service is poised to alleviate the commuting challenges that have long plagued the area. As a gesture of goodwill, Penangites and tourists alike will be able to enjoy a free shuttle ferry service for the entire month, lasting until September 6.

The four new ferries – Teluk Bahang, Teluk Kampi, Teluk Duyung, and Teluk Kumbar – have been designed to accommodate 150 passengers and up to 50 motorcycles or bicycles, catering primarily to two-wheelers. The service will operate an impressive 68 round trips daily, with a frequency of one ferry every 20 minutes during peak hours and every 30 minutes during non-peak hours.

Inaugural journey with caretaker Chief Minister

The inaugural voyage of the new Penang ferry service saw the presence of caretaker Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who embarked on the Teluk Kampi ferry from the Sultan Abdul Halim terminal at approximately 6:30 am yesterday. During the voyage, Chow interacted with the first batch of pedestrians and motorcyclists, sharing their excitement.

Chow highlighted the significance of this new era in Penang’s transportation landscape: “It is a new experience for the pedestrians and motorcyclists as the ferry’s environment is a total makeover compared to the previous iconic ferry.”

Chow added that we have now entered a new era whereby this new ferry service will serve as one of the modes of transport to Penangites traveling from the island to the mainland and vice-versa. This new ferry service is efficient and comfortable compared to the previous iconic ferry.

The new ferries come equipped with state-of-the-art features aimed at enhancing passenger comfort and safety. Notable attributes include 360-degree rotation capabilities, air-conditioned coaches, dual entry and exit points for seamless accessibility, and dedicated facilities catering to individuals with disabilities. For heightened safety, the ferries are fitted with closed-circuit televisions (CCTVs) and fire extinguishers.

Passenger perspective sheds light on the experience

Former journalist and musician RS Murthi shared his personal journey as a passenger on social media after embarking on the maiden voyage in the late afternoon. “Despite this being the first day of operations, things ran smoothly,” Murthi wrote, attesting to the service’s impressive kick-off.

Delving into specifics, Murthi provided a detailed overview of the ferry’s amenities. He applauded the air-conditioned closed section for pedestrians, noting the smart seating arrangement that comfortably accommodates up to 150 passengers.

Murthi stated, “The closed section has three-seat rows by the window and two-seat ones on the opposite side,” highlighting the meticulous attention to passenger comfort.

He also commended the provision of luggage racks and enclosed trash bins, catering to practical needs. Murthi acknowledged the inclusivity efforts, mentioning a designated washroom for individuals with disabilities.

On the operational flow, he explained the embarkation process, stating, “As for the flow system, it’s pedestrians-in-first at the point of departure, and bikes-out-first at the point of arrival,” shedding light on the organized boarding procedure.

However, Murthi also pointed out potential limitations, such as the capacity of the open section for motorbikes, which might lead to extended waiting periods during rush hour. He also highlighted challenges for bikers during thunderstorms.

Discussing scheduling, Murthi highlighted potential inconveniences such as the early departure times, which might not align well with the schedules of commuters who have prior commitments. Additionally, he pointed out the constraints of the final ferry timings, potentially creating difficulties for individuals working late shifts or participating in nighttime activities.

The new Penang ferry service signifies a significant leap forward for the island’s transportation system, assuring a convenient and efficient commuting future for both residents and visitors. As the ferries set sail on Penang’s waters, a new era of transport convenience and quality service dawns on the horizon.