School bus fares are expected to rise between 25% and 30% due to the increase in the cost of spare parts and the minimum wage.
The competition from the increase in illegal operators also contributed to the possible increase in bus fares. According to the president of the Malaysian School Bus Industry Welfare Organization (BSM), the increase in school bus fares is, unfortunately, necessary.
“The increase is unavoidable. We need to ensure the survival of the industry,” Mohd. Haron Mohamad Sidik said, reported Utusan.
Haron also said that the school session is expected to return to normal in 2026, causing the school bus operation to serve only 11 months following the full holiday in December.
“It is possible that school bus fares will also be difficult to get in October and November because many students no longer go to school after the end-of-year exams. School bus operators only earn income from fares or fees in a year by operating for nine months only.”
Insurance, road tax, periodic inspections at Puspakom, bank loans, and regular subsistence must be provided for 12 months in a year.
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The Ministry of Transport has also revoked the privilege of school buses by not allowing bus rental activities during school holidays, making it tougher for the operators to survive.
Mohd Haron suggested that the government take over the cost of school bus fares if they are concerned about the parents and the guardians of the children.
