TRANSPORT Minister Anthony Loke announced that the Penang Port Commission and Penang Port Sdn Bhd will provide free ferry services from midnight on January 24 and 26 to facilitate travel for the Hindu community during the upcoming Thaipusam celebration. The 24-hour ferry service – a first-time initiative – is expected to alleviate traffic congestion on the island.

“When ferry passengers arrive at the Pangkalan Raja Tun Uda ferry terminal, they will be provided with a free Rapid Penang feeder bus service.

“This bus will stop at places where devotees will offer prayers with the final destination being the Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple,” he told a press conference in Butterworth today.

Meanwhile, Loke said the Penang Rapid Bus is set to run from 2pm to 1am on January 24, and on January 25, it will operate from 5.30am to 1am the following day.

He hoped that this effort would boost public transport ridership, especially during the festive season. – Bernama, January 16, 2024.