Upgrade Sungai Nibong bus terminal, says Assemblyman

GEORGE TOWN, Nov 5 -- A state assemblyman has urged the Penang government to upgrade the bus terminal in Sungai Nibong here in line with its aspiration to achieve international smart city status. 

A. Kumaresan (PH-Batu Uban) said the bus terminal is an important hub for domestic and foreign visitors to Penang but is now in poor condition.

He said the terminal is not very accessible, especially to the elderly and disabled, does not have a comfortable waiting area or elevators, and its operations were often disrupted by ticket touts. 

"The state of the bus terminal does not reflect the ‘smart city’ concept. It should be upgraded and rebranded like Penang Sentral in Butterworth,” he said when debating the Supply Bill and 2020 Development Estimates at the Penang Legislative Assembly sitting here today.

He said there are more than 30 bus companies operating at the terminal, which is more than 15 years old.

Kumaresan also suggested that the project to upgrade the bus terminal should include a site where a carnival could be held during the annual Pesta Pulau Pinang season.

He called on the state government to work with the private sector by creating an “Uptown” or night market to provide opportunities for local traders.

"The state government's collaboration with the private sector can boost the state's tourism sector and contribute to the economic growth of the local residents," he said.

The Pesta Pulau Pinang site, located next to the terminal, holds the annual fair in late November and December.

-- BERNAMA