Kuching: The Commercial Vehicle Licensing Board (LPKP) Sarawak is stepping up efforts to modernise public transport by requiring all stage buses in the state to be equipped with GPS tracking and Electronic Ticketing Machines (ETM) effective 1 November 2025, aiming to enhance service efficiency and passenger convenience.
“Since last Monday, I have met with stage bus operators in Kuching, Sibu, and Miri to explain this initiative and secure their commitment.
“We are pleased to announce that more than 100 buses have already signed on, and we look forward to a modernised and more efficient stage bus industry in Sarawak once these GPS and ETM devices are fully installed,” LPKP Sarawak Chairman Michael Kong Feng Nian said in a statement.
He explained that the GPS devices will enable tracking of buses, ensure adherence to routes and schedules, and improve operational efficiency.
“Meanwhile, ETM devices will assist operators with payment collection and provide accurate ridership data, allowing LPKP Sarawak to plan better and enhance bus services across the state.
“Recognising that these devices come at a significant cost (approximately RM800 per month per bus), LPKP Sarawak will fully cover the expenses under the Integrated Stage Bus Subsidy Fund (ISBSF), ensuring that stage bus operators can upgrade their buses without bearing any additional costs,” he said.
He added that every year, LPKP Sarawak provides subsidies to the stage bus operators under the ISBSF, with a total fund size of RM5 million.
“This initiative helps cover operating costs such as rent, salaries, vehicle maintenance, and other essential expenses,” he said.
 on all stage buses from 1 November 2025, enhancing operational efficiency and passenger convenience with support from the ISBSF subsidy.){kind=link}