Miri smart buses record over 1.82 million rides

THE New Smart Bus Service in Miri has recorded more than 1.82 million passenger trips as of September 2026, reflecting growing confidence in public transport.

According to Sarawak Transport Minister, Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, average monthly ridership stood at 83,075 passengers from January to September 2026.

“This is a significant milestone and reflects the growing confidence and acceptance of public transport among the people of Miri,” he said in his winding-up speech at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly today.

Lee said the service’s 14 buses continued to serve commuters across eight routes after two years of operation, providing a reliable, accessible and modern public transport option.

“Through the Sarawak Smart Transport Application (SSTA), commuters are able to track buses in real time,” he said.

He said operational data from the service also enabled the ministry to better understand travel patterns and improve route planning and scheduling.

“Building on the progress in Miri, Sibu would be the next town to undergo public transport modernisation. The Sarawak Government will introduce a zero-fare stage bus service comprising 13 new smart electric buses in the first quarter of 2027.

“The buses will serve Sibu town and areas including Sibujaya, Kemuyang, Ulu Sungai Merah, Rantau Panjang, and Lower and Upper Lanang,” he said.

Meanwhile, Lee said Kuching’s Stage Bus Service Transformation programme, also known as BAS.MY, has carried more than 1.29 million passengers since its launch in March 2025.

“Since its launch in March 2025, the service has operated 56 new buses across 13 routes,” he said.

The federal government initiative, implemented in collaboration with his ministry, recorded an average monthly ridership of 82,204 passengers in 2026.

Commuters can use the BAS.MY Journey Planner application to plan their trips.