The crowd gathering outside Sibu Express Boat Terminal.
SIBU: Those heading home for the holidays crowded the Sibu Express Boat Terminal yesterday as the Sarawak Rivers Board (SRB) tightened safety measures.
The terminal was packed with people making their way back to their villages and longhouses, with the number soaring to 6,567 as at yesterday.
A huge crowd could be seen gathering outside the canopies erected outside the entrance of the terminal, recording their particulars under the watchful eyes of SRB officers.
The situation was orderly with passengers cooperating with SRB enforcement officers.
To ensure a smooth flow and to reduce congestion inside the terminal, one side of the entrance was turned into an entry point while the other an exit from the building.
SRB officers assisted by Rela personnel stood guard at the entrance where passengers were required to furnish their tickets before being allowed into the terminal.
This was in accordance with the ‘No Ticket No Entry’ policy to prevent overloading.
The systematic arrangement had prevented people from rushing into the terminal.
Police kept a constant look-out to deter would-be pickpockets and snatch thieves.
Meanwhile, SRB assistant controller (Region Two) Christopher Chan revealed that there were five cases of pickpockets brought to their attention yesterday.
“The victims were four males and one female. We have advised them to lodge police reports,” he said.
Chan reminded the public to be vigilant and not let their guard down.
“They must also never leave their belongings unattended,” he advised.
Chan said the terminal was operating as early as 5am daily right up to the arrival of the last express boat at around 6pm.
“The earliest express boat departs for Kapit at 5.45am daily.”
Elsewhere at the pontoons, personnel from the Marine Department were busy checking on express boats.
The four teams inspected certificates of competency, safety equipment such as life jackets and safety marine certificates.
A total of 19 boats were inspected on May 28 while 13 were cleared yesterday.