KUALA LUMPUR: The government should first address connectivity to the public transportation system as the first and last-mile connectivity remains a key issue for many users.
Transport consultant Wan Agyl Wan Hassan said while the government's decision to use savings achieved from the implementation of targeted subsidies to cover transportation costs for the people was a significant move, it was also essential to maximise the impact of the move.
He added with substantial investments being made into public transportation infrastructure, the right plans and policies in place to effectively shift the modal share from private vehicles to public transport were needed.
"Currently, we are still a car nation, with less than 20 per cent of our population using public transport. (Hence,) this shift is crucial to enhance overall efficiency and reduce our reliance on private vehicles in achieving the target of 40 per cent modal share by 2030.
"We also encourage local authorities to focus on resolving these connectivity challenges by improving infrastructure such as pedestrian walkways and supporting micro mobility options like bicycles and e-scooters.
"A well-connected urban planning approach will make public transport a more attractive and viable option for everyone," he said.
Wan Agyl added that it was also important to extend the enhancement of public transportation infrastructure beyond major cities as a well-distributed and efficient public transport network will contribute to the balanced development of all regions.
"The government's efforts in reallocating diesel subsidy savings towards public transport improvements are highly commendable.
"(However,) by considering these suggestions, we believe that the impact of these initiatives can be further enhanced.
"Ensuring proper connectivity, extending focus beyond major cities, and harmonising national policies will contribute to creating a more inclusive, efficient, and sustainable transportation system for all Malaysians."
Yesterday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the government will spend the RM4 billion savings achieved from the implementation of targeted diesel subsidies on covering public transportation costs and cash aids for the people, such as Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR).
Anwar also said the government's cost for the STR, for example, had risen to nearly RM10 billion as the number of recipients had reached nine million people.