SIBU: A former tour operator believes that many people would want the bus operation servicing the airport-town route here to be revived.
Sarawak Central Region Hotels Association chairman Johnny Wong said several people told him how surprised they were after finding out that the bus service was no longer available.
“Although there are taxi services available, some still prefer buses as the fares are lower. Moreover, they (visitors) are not pressed for time,” he said when met yesterday, noting that the majority of the visitors here were backpackers and thus, were travelling on tight budgets.
In response to the requests, Wong said he had called up the owner of the bus company, which used to run the route, to seek an explanation.
“They (bus company) told me that they were making losses and as such, they could not continue with the route.”
On this, Wong suggested that since the company had buses going from the town’s centre up to Sibu Jaya, perhaps it could consider picking up passengers at the airport.
“This is because the airport is very near to Sibu Jaya.”
Wong also hoped that relevant authorities would look into the matter.
On another matter, he praised the local council on its efforts in improving the places of interest here.
Adding on, he hoped that Taman Jubli in Bukit Aup would get a much-needed facelift.
“This place has the potential to attract tourists, just like the Bintulu Birds Park.”
Wong also hoped for better air connectivity here.
“Good air connectivity is key to attracting more people to Sibu town. We need more direct flights.
“With better air connectivity, tourists could better plan their trips, where they could visit more places of interest here,” he said.