FIRSTLY, I am pleased with the appointment of Datuk Ong Tee Keat as transport minister.

As a public transport user, I hope that he will bring change to the national public transport scenario, particularly in the Klang Valley.

Many of the issues mentioned by Ong require rectification and the effort of the ministry to look into improving the public transport system is most welcome.

A number of agencies are involved in dealing with the matters of public transportation.

The Commercial Vehicle Licensing Board (CVLB), which is in charge of providing commercial vehicle permits, is accused of inconsistency in managing and in issuing the permits.

Road tax and traffic offences come under the Road Transport Department while the Department of Railways oversees rail and train services. Both these departments are under the Transport Ministry.

Public transportation facilities such as bus stops, bus terminals and bus lanes are placed under the jurisdiction of the local government.

The variety of agencies involved in handling public transportation is very confusing and causes many problems.

As such, it is only proper that a single agency is formed, taking Singapore as an example. The formation of this agency has been long overdue but yet to be implemented.

Where has it gone wrong? Are the existing agencies not in favour of giving up their importance?

Judging from the present situation, local vehicle makers are in heavy competition to make more affordable cars.

The car dealers are rushing to get more imported cars in and finance firms are offering low interest rates for loans on new cars. Many more highways are being built to speed up travel.

What will become of the efforts of the government to improve the quality of service when at the same time there are groups encouraging the purchase of private cars?

Please think and rethink!

Zuraida Abd Samad
Sungai Buloh

Source: The Sun – May 30, 2008