Protesters at Langkawi jetty demand end to ferry rationing, citing severe impact on tourism and resident travel as services are cut from five to three trips daily
LANGKAWI: Hundreds gathered at the Kuah Passenger Jetty Terminal to protest a significant reduction in ferry services to the island.
Representatives from several non-governmental organisations called for immediate government intervention to resolve the issue.
The ferry operator reduced daily trips from five to three beginning March 25. Anak Muda MADANI Kedah chairman Datuk Zuraidi Rahim said this has directly led to a decline in tourist arrivals.
He warned the situation is severely affecting Langkawi residents who depend on tourism, especially small traders.
Zuraidi stated the island’s economy could deteriorate further if the rationing continues for another month or two.
“This gathering, held in accordance with regulations, aims to pressure ferry operators to immediately end the rationing,” he told the media.
Zuraidi noted the government has introduced a targeted bunker fuel surcharge as a temporary measure to offset rising diesel costs.
He urged ferry operators to restore up to eight daily trips to boost tourism and ease public travel.
“If rationing continues, we call on the government to allow more operators to provide ferry services to Langkawi,” he added.
Langkawi Tourism Association chairman Zainudin Kadir claimed nearly a month of reduced services has caused a noticeable drop in tourist arrivals. He said domestic visitors have been particularly affected.
“About 70% of tourists rely on ferry services to reach Langkawi. When trips are reduced, it slows down the inflow,” Zainudin explained. He added that many travel agent counters on the island are now closed.
Langkawi District Bus Drivers Association chairman Mohamad Syukri Saad said numerous transport bookings have been cancelled this month.
He explained that fewer trips make it difficult for tourists, especially large groups, to maximise their time on the island.
For residents, the rationing has made securing ferry tickets increasingly difficult. Langkawi District Senior Citizens Association deputy chairman Ramli Ahmad said tickets now sell out quickly.
“In emergencies, we sometimes have to rely on RoRo services,” Ramli said.
Ferry Line Ventures Sdn Bhd previously stated the reduction was necessary to ensure service continuity.
General manager Dr Baharin Baharom said the company acted to avoid a complete halt of operations due to rising industrial diesel costs.
He explained the company had no choice but to scale back operations amid concerns over financial sustainability.
