THE state government can collaborate with the Federal government to develop a long-term plan to upgrade the facilities at the Butterworth KTM station, including the installation of elevators and escalators.
The proposed plan should also address the need to improve the pedestrian pathway linking the Sultan Abdul Halim Ferry Terminal to Penang Sentral.
Wong Yuee Harng (PH-Pengkalan Kota) raised the matter during the State Legislative Assembly held at Light Street yesterday (May 19).
“I urge the Federal Government to enhance the waiting area and lobby at the Butterworth KTM station, with particular attention on upgrading the ventilation system to ensure a more comfortable environment for public transport users.
“The journey between the Sultan Abdul Halim Ferry Terminal in Butterworth and the Butterworth KTM station takes about eight minutes for a physically fit individual. However, it requires using stairs and navigating a long slope near Penang Sentral.
“This poses significant challenges for the elderly, people with mobility issues, and travellers carrying heavy luggage. The lifts currently available are limited in number and small in size, insufficient to accommodate the high volume of passengers using this route daily.
“The 100-meter slope is also a challenge for people who struggle to walk long distances or uphill. Better facilities and accessibility are needed to make the journey easier and more comfortable for the users,” he added.
Wong also shared that Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPSB) has plans to improve the existing ferry service, especially for passengers who continue their journey via the ETS train at Butterworth KTM station.
“This may include adjusting the ferry schedule or adding more trips to better align with the ETS timetable.
“Due to the existing schedule, especially for the first and last trips, many passengers risk missing the final ferry of the day and are forced to rely on e-hailing services, which can be costly and inconvenient, particularly late at night.
“As a Penangite, I welcome PPSB’s plan to better coordinate ferry and ETS train services, especially for the first and last trips of the day. I look forward to these much-needed improvements that will make public transport more convenient, reliable, and accessible for all,” Wong said.
Gooi Hsiao Leung (PH–Bukit Tengah) echoed Wong’s sentiments, pointing out that the designated waiting area for Grab passengers on Level 7 of Penang Sentral is inconvenient for both passengers and drivers.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter