TMAS Enhances TBS Facilities, Services Through Phased Transformation

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 12 (Bernama) -- Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) is undergoing a phased transformation of its facilities and services, covering infrastructure modernisation, improved passenger comfort and digitalisation, to enhance the overall travel experience.

TMAS Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Shazwan Mohammad said one of the initiatives involved the modernisation of four escalators at a cost of RM3 million, with operations expected to resume in stages from December.

"The cost of modernising each escalator is RM750,000. Since taking over the management of the terminal about a year ago, we have been implementing improvements in phases," he told Bernama.

TBS began operations on Jan 1, 2011, with the aim of easing traffic congestion in the Kuala Lumpur city centre.

Shazwan explained that TMAS, as the terminal operator, had to order components manufactured according to the specific requirements of each escalator, with the entire process, including preparation and delivery, taking about two months.

He said the terminal's 24-hour operations, coupled with the fact that some escalators were located outside the main building and exposed to weather conditions, posed challenges in maintaining the facilities.

He added that the temporary closure of the escalators was necessary to ensure passenger safety, while security personnel had been deployed to assist users, particularly those requiring additional support, including wheelchair users.

Meanwhile, the main lifts have been repaired, while seating in the departure area has been replaced with airport-style chairs to improve passenger comfort.

The men's toilets on the fourth floor have also been upgraded, while improvements to the closed-circuit television (CCTV) system and surau (prayer room) are being carried out in stages.

On digitalisation, Shazwan said TBS aimed to introduce a display system showing estimated bus arrival times before Aidilfitri next year to help passengers plan their journeys more effectively.

He said TMAS was currently engaging with 144 express bus operators to integrate data from their respective navigation systems with the terminal's system.

"Information will initially be displayed on screens within the terminal, with plans to subsequently make it accessible via mobile devices. This is intended to help reduce congestion in waiting areas when bus delays occur," he said.

Meanwhile, Shazwan said TMAS had signed memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) and Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka (UTeM) to facilitate express bus services that would pick up students directly from their respective campuses.

He said the campus-based service was targeted to begin next year, subject to approval from the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) and the finalisation of designated bus waiting areas on the campuses.

"We plan to operate the service over a 14-day period, covering seven days before and seven days after the festive season. Express bus operators whose routes pass nearby will enter the campuses to pick up students and take them directly to their respective destinations," he said.

Plans are also underway to install Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs) on the campuses, enabling students to purchase tickets at standard fares according to their chosen bus category, with TMAS encouraging the use of economy-class services.

He added that TMAS was exploring potential collaborations with Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK) and TATI University College, with plans to eventually extend the initiative to MARA Junior Science Colleges (MRSM).

-- BERNAMA