THE Transport Ministry has revoked the licence of an operator of the Labuan-Menumbok ferry service, it was learnt today.

The revocation letter issued to  Labuan Ferry Corporation Sdn Bhd on October 25, stated that the long-time ferry service provider had been wound up by the Labuan High Court and that it had not complied with safety requirements.

The letter said the ministry had been notified by the Sabah Ports and Harbour Department on the court-ordered dissolution of the company, and the Department of Insolvency confirmed that the wind-up took place on February 6.

The MOT also received a safety inspection report on October 2 from the Labuan Marine Department, on the MV Wawasan Perdana ferry operated by the company, which stated that it did not comply with safety requirements.  

The ferry operator had provided the service for over a decade, initially operating two ferries – Wawasan Perdana and Warisan – but ceased using Warisan. Wawasan Perdana is currently under repair. 

With the revocation of the licence, the ferry service between Labuan and mainland Sabah is now handled by two operators – Juta Bonus through its only ferry Galaxy, and Labuan Mainland Link Sdn Bhd through its three ferries – Kimanis 1, Putrajaya 2 and Goodwill Star.

Sabah Ports and Harbour Department director Captain Abel Ongkunik, who confirmed the revocation of the licence, said public notification through the media was important to prevent the illegal sale of Labuan-Menumbok-Labuan ferry tickets by irresponsible parties in view of the festive season and school holidays. – Bernama, December 19, 2017.