THIS article is in response to the “Open letter to PM on Penang’s transport options” published by The Malaysian Insight earlier today.

The letter laments the absence of quantitative analysis with comparison from other parts of the world to support the argument for preferred public transport option.

The author refers as example a study comparing the operation cost of BRT and LRT of 15 American cities.

We at AnakPinang applaud the author’s interest in the debate over which public transport option is suitable for Penang. Unfortunately, his request does not make sense.

First of all, such quantitative analysis is only possible with actual existing systems. All the 15 American cities do have BRT and LRT and therefore there are details to compare.

There is no BRT or LRT in Penang, therefore the call for such comparison of non-existing entities boggles the mind.

Secondly, the vast difference between two systems in different parts of the world make the comparison inconclusive at best, meaningless at worst.

The only item that can be compared is perhaps the cost of the virgin vehicle (BRT and LRT) purchased directly from the manufacturer. All other cost variations cannot be compared at all as they are subject to at least the following:

1. Different geography
2. Different demography
3. Different routes
4. Different human resources cost
5. Different government requirements
6. Different software customisations
7. Different design, requirement, and number of stations
8. Different design and specification of track and road
9. Different material or parts cost
10. Different passengers’ affordability level

Any constructive opinion to the debate is welcomed, but to write such a meaningless letter to the prime minister does not in any way contribute to the discourse.

Perhaps the author should present his credential for the state government to seek his advice. After all, there are members of civil groups who are ready to be engaged professionally by the government.

The author attempts to paint a global scenario in reference to public transport option but his letter’s content is not instructive at all. Calling for a comparison of non-existent entities only confuses the general public. – October 30, 2018.

* AnakPinang is a civil group in Penang (http://www.anakpinang.org).

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.