THE Pahang government has agreed Tioman residents will only have to pay RM20 one-way to the mainland compared to the current rate of RM50, starting from January next year.

Menteri Besar Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail said the 60% subsidy will be borne by the state government, involving RM500,000, and would benefit approximately 3,600 residents.

“When they (residents) met me, many said the fare to the mainland was expensive. So I asked how much (the fare) they could afford and most recommended RM20,” he said, adding that the matter has been discussed with the state financial officer.

Wan Rosdy said this to reporters after an engagement session with the residents of Kampung Jawa in Rompin today.

The new rate, according to Wan Rosdy, only involves the route via Teluk Gading Jetty (formerly Tanjung Gemok) while the one-way fare for non-resident adult passengers and tourists remains at RM60.

Wan Rosdy also said the government has approved the construction of a clinic with maternity ward facilities, dental services, and specialist doctors on the island to facilitate treatment for the people there.

“This will be convenient for the people, especially pregnant women who no longer need to travel to the mainland to give birth. This was made possible because the central and state governments are aligned,” he said. – Bernama, December 4, 2022.