KOTA KINABALU: The three ferry operators offered to ply the Labuan-Menumbok-Labuan ferry service have yet to reply whether they have accepted the offer made by the state government.
Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan
They have until tomorrow to reply, said Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan.
In clarifying various reports on the issue, he said three companies — Labuan Ferry Corporation Sdn Bhd, Labuan Mainland Link Sdn Bhd and Juta Bonus Development Sdn Bhd — were offered to carry vehicles, while only one ferry operator — Isro Shipping — was for passengers.
Isro Shipping has already replied and accepted the offer, he told reporters after opening the annual general meeting of the Road Safety Council.
“We did set a timeframe…We’ve sent the offer letter to the companies concerned that they’re given “landing rights”.
“They were given seven days to reply whether they’re interested.
“The offer letter was sent on Jan 20, they’re given between Jan 21 and Jan 28 to reply, we’re waiting for their decision.
“Once they’ve made their decision to run the service, (then) we’ll determine the (operational) conditions, the schedule and fares,” said Pairin, who is also state Infrastructure Development Minister.
Pairin said a news report quoting Labuan Ferry Corporation (LFC) has been awarded a 10-year contract by the state government to run the Labuan-Menumbok-Labuan ferry service was inaccurate as the company has yet to respond to the offer.
LFC chief executive officer Shamsul Sahari said Monday their contract was effective Jan 21 and that they are the only company to have agreed to the contract so far.
Asked whether the state government would extend the offer to other ferry operators if the three companies did not reply or accept the offer, Pairin said it would be wise to wait first before commenting further. — Bernama