2 years back, multiple LRT stations in Ipoh were proposed, and Bung Moktar proposed a Sky Train in Sabah that will link Kota Kinabalu International Airport to the city center.
While we’re unsure of the fate of these developments, Langkawi’s MP, Suhaimi Abdullah was wondering about building trains like MRT which will allow users to travel from Alor Setar to Kuah, Langkawi. Suhaimi brought up the issue in the Parliamentary session yesterday (September 19) to highlight the issues of ferry frequency in Langkawi.
He mentioned that during the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA 2023) in May, there were 6 ferry trips in a day and today, only 3 ferry trips are available in a day.
“Some people are fed-up with the ferry frequencies. Do we need to build trains to allow visitors to travel from Alor Setar to Kuah?”
When speaking about the trains, Suhaimi mentioned “trains like MRT in KL.”
In response to Suhaimi’s suggestions, the Ministry of Transport, Anthony Loke said that he was surprised to hear the suggestions.
“Did I hear that right? MRT from Alor Setar to Kuah? You need to go across the sea for that,” he chuckled.
Anthony then explained the lesser ferry frequency on regular days is simply due to lesser demands. In the meantime, the operators are using big ferries to carry more passengers at once. However, Anthony understands how it may affect other passengers too.
“We’ll speak to the operators about making more ferries available periodically, and introduce smaller ferries like those in Penang as long-term solutions.”
The transport minister ended his statement without speaking further on building an MRT for Langkawi.
Netizens, on the other hand, were not amused by Suhaimi’s suggestions on building trains headed for Langkawi from Alor Setar.
“Genius question from Langkawi MP. Tun M would spill his coffee if he listened to this minister talking.”
“This is what you get for electing an MP who isn’t smart.”
“It’s funny to see Anthony Loke holding his laughter while thinking how to answer Suhaimi politely.”
“Bigger towns like JB and Georgetown which are full of people can’t even get trains. I could’ve accepted it if he suggested Alor Setar to Kuala Perlis although it’s still fairly impossible. Langkawi MP is funny, congrats to those who voted for him.”
“In terms of budget, I think it’s wiser to build one from Johor to Singapore and Indonesia. The 50 to 53 km routes have more trading values.”
You can watch the clip below which was shared on Ubah TV’s YouTube channel.
To our friends in Kedah, do you see the need (if it’s even possible) for a train to Kuah, Langkawi?
Also read: Anthony Loke Agrees that Penangites Need LRT as He’s Well Aware of the Hectic Traffic in Penang
