The Ministry of Transport names three shopping malls as new hubs for KL-Singapore express buses to replace unlicensed stops and improve safety.
KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Transport has identified three major shopping malls to serve as new public transport hubs for express bus services between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.
Minister Anthony Loke said the move aims to solve the long-standing issue of buses using unlicensed pick-up and drop-off points. He stated the goal is to ensure safer, more orderly operations in appropriate areas.
This initiative also seeks to enhance passenger comfort and reduce congestion in the city centre. Loke highlighted that buses have been illegally stopping at locations like in front of Berjaya Times Square and the Corus Hotel for years.
“After considering the views and feedback of the parties involved, we have decided that these express buses must operate in safer and more suitable areas, close to key focal points in Kuala Lumpur city centre,” he said.
Loke spoke after a working visit to the Lalaport Transport Hub at Mitsui Shopping Park Lalaport Bukit Bintang City Centre. Apart from Lalaport, the other malls identified are One Utama in Petaling Jaya and IOI City Mall in Putrajaya.
He added that Sunway Pyramid is still under evaluation for the same purpose. Lalaport is expected to begin operations as a hub in February and could become the first licensed location for the KL-Singapore route.
The other three malls will need to upgrade their existing facilities to meet safety standards before the Land Public Transport Agency can issue an operating licence. Loke expressed satisfaction with the facilities at the Lalaport hub.
“Although it is not a large terminal, Lalaport offers comfortable and safe facilities for passengers, and its location is integrated with the LRT and Monorail systems via Hang Tuah Station,” he said.
The hub features six departure bays and five arrival bays designed for safety, efficiency and comfort. It includes an integrated ticketing system and access to LRT and monorail services.
A Bus On Demand service will also connect Lalaport with the Bukit Bintang and Mont Kiara areas. Loke said operators were previously given a three-month grace period to stay at current unlicensed spots without legal action.
They will be required to relocate once the new hub becomes fully operational. “They must comply with regulations and can only operate at licensed locations,” Loke emphasised.
He clarified this is not about forcing buses to use major integrated terminals but about safety and legal compliance. Last November, APAD suspended the Aeroline express bus service for a month for licence abuse related to unauthorised stops.
