REDBUS REPORTS 63 PCT SURGE IN BUS TICKET DEMAND DURING PEAK PERIODS

By Abdul Hamid A Rahman

KUALA LUMPUR, April 4 (Bernama) -- One of the world’s largest online bus ticket booking services redBus has reported a remarkable 63 per cent increase in demand for bus tickets during peak travel periods, notably during festive seasons like Hari Raya, compared to regular times.

Chief business officer for international business Krishnan Ramaswami, who is based in Bengaluru. said the company has strategically adapted its business operations to cater to the evolving needs and expectations of travellers during festive seasons like Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

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“The company operates as a marketplace and aggregator. Buses and bus services are entirely owned, operated, and managed by different operators, and they handle all aspects of the buses, including services, timetables, and other standards.

“The company's innovative approach includes the integration of technology, attractive promotions and leveraging data insights to enhance customer satisfaction and operational efficiency,” he told Bernama.

Krishnan said one of the key strategies employed by redBus is the implementation of digital boarding passes aimed at addressing congestion issues at terminals during peak periods.

“This new system allows users to scan their passes for boarding, eliminating the hassle of physical tickets.

“Additionally, redBus has successfully integrated its services with terminals across the country, including Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS), Terminal Terengganu, Terminal Melaka, and Terminal Klang, thereby alleviating concerns such as long queues and counter congestion,” he said.

Furthermore, he said redBus utilises data insights to assist bus operators in optimising supply based on anticipated demand.

“By sharing real-time insights and inferences with operators, redBus empowers them to proactively address situations where demand exceeds supply, ensuring a seamless travel experience for passengers,” he said.

Krishnan said that in terms of locations with the highest demand, regions with a predominantly Malay population typically see the greatest travel volumes.

“Routes with the highest traction are from major cities to East Coast towns, and top routes include Kuala Lumpur to Melaka, Johor Bahru and Kuantan.

“This year, our data suggests that the peak travel period will likely occur in the latter part of the first week of April as individuals journey back to their hometowns for celebrations, with peak dates for return travel anticipated on April 13 and 14.

“However, the available inventory fails to match this surge in demand. Consequently, during these peak seasons, an alarming 41 per cent of travellers seeking bus travel are unable to secure tickets through the redBus platform due to insufficient supply in the market,” he said.

Krishnan added that technology and innovation continue to play a significant role in reshaping the travel experience.

“The company is at the forefront of integrating these elements to enhance customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. Beyond digital boarding passes, redBus offers initiatives like refund guarantee and verified ratings and reviews, ensuring flexibility and transparency for customers,” he said.

He said that at the macro level, the road travel sector in Malaysia presents a significant opportunity for redBus expansion efforts, as buses remain an important mode of transportation known for their accessibility and cost-effectiveness, offering promising avenues for further growth, especially during peak travel periods.

“Government support, as evidenced by initiatives such as the Budget 2024 allocations for road upgrades, as well as upgrades to improve traffic in the Klang Valley, underscores the conducive environment for our operations.

“In addition, redBus looks forward to strengthening its presence in regions like Sabah and Sarawak. Also, an opportunity we see is greater road connectivity between Malaysia and its neighbouring countries like Thailand and Singapore and better ferry connectivity with Indonesia and Thailand,” he added.

Resonating with the festive season of Hari Raya, redBus has introduced a special code 'HEBOHRAYA' that allows users to save up to 60 per cent on bus tickets when booking through its platform.

-- BERNAMA