Sarawak’s free school bus service, proven to cut traffic and boost safety, will be expanded to more schools with state-funded buses and tracking tech
KUCHING: The free school bus initiative will be expanded to more schools in Sarawak following its successful pilot at SJK Chung Hua No. 6 here.
Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said data showed a significant reduction in traffic volume around the school, easing congestion and improving road safety.
“The school bus is also equipped with real-time tracking technology and a two-way communication system, which has increased parents’ confidence in the safety of their children,” he said.
He added that parents can monitor the bus and communicate directly with their children throughout the journey.
The initiative provides direct benefits by reducing the need for parents to send and pick up their children, helping to ease the burden of rising living costs.
Abang Johari said the state government fully bears the programme’s cost, including buses and operational expenses, to ensure its sustainability.
“This initiative is also part of broader efforts to promote the use of safe and efficient public transport,” he said.
He added it aims to reduce reliance on private vehicles and support more sustainable urban development.
The programme will be expanded in stages to other schools, including those in both urban and rural areas, with implementation tailored to local needs.
