KUCHING: The Kuching Metro E-Bus network took another step forward following a trial run of a new route connecting the Open Air Market to Semenggoh, aimed at improving public transport access while supporting tourism and sustainable mobility in the city.
The trial run was conducted by the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak (MTCP) and was joined by Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, as well as Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Sarawak, YB Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah. The exercise was part of ongoing efforts to assess route efficiency, passenger comfort, and connectivity between urban areas and key tourism destinations.
The new route links the busy Open Air Market in Kuching city centre with Semenggoh, an area well known for its natural attractions, including the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre. The trial aimed to evaluate travel time, traffic conditions, and the overall suitability of the route for daily operations once the service is officially launched.
As part of the programme, participants were taken on a short excursion to the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre. During the visit, a briefing was held to update those present on the current status of the centre, as well as future development plans designed to enhance conservation efforts and visitor experience. The briefing highlighted the importance of sustainable transport links in supporting eco-tourism while reducing the environmental impact of private vehicle use.
YB Dato Sri Abdul Karim noted that the introduction of the E-Bus route aligns with Sarawak’s broader vision of modern, environmentally friendly public transport. He said reliable and accessible transport is essential not only for residents, but also for tourists who wish to explore attractions outside the city centre without relying on private transport.
Also present during the trial run were Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, YBrs Tuan Morshidi Fredrick, Datu Sherrina Binti Hussaini, and several MTCP officers. Their presence reflected strong inter-agency cooperation in ensuring the success of the Kuching Metro initiative.
MTCP officials explained that feedback and data collected from the trial run will be used to fine-tune operational details before the route is opened to the public. This includes scheduling, stop locations, and integration with other planned E-Bus routes under the Kuching Metro system.
The trial run represents a significant move towards improving public transport connectivity in Kuching, while supporting tourism growth and sustainable urban development. Once operational, the new route is expected to benefit local communities, workers, and visitors travelling between the city centre and Semenggoh.
