SHAH ALAM, 12 Dec: The Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (FOMCA) praised the Selangor Government’s move to offer free bus services to the people of the state to encourage the use of public transportation.

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The Communications Director of FOMCA, Mohd Yusof Abdul Rahman, said that the Central Government should take this approach is they want more people to use public transportation to reduce traffic congestion.

He said that the move by the Central Government to raise public transportation fees will result in the goal of wanting to encourage the people to use the service to not be achieved.

In fact, he said, a comprehensive study should be carried out so that the people will not continue to be burdened with various increases in price.

“One of the actors of the increase is because electricity charges have increased, but the government should understand that it involves the use of many consumers. Previously they asked to use this service because fuel prices went up. But now, the fare will also be increased.

“At the same time, the government wants to encourage the people to use public services. But when there is an increase, the level of usage of this service will drop and consequently, the government’s goal will not be achieved,” he said when contacted by Selangor Kini.

Moreover, Yusof said that public transport services should be improved to be in line with the increased fare.

“Do not get it to a pint where people would not use it at all. Otherwise, ensure that the rate of increase can be afforded by users and not burden them,” he said.

He also suggested for discounts and subsidies for public services to be introduced.

“For the commuter service, those earning below RM3,000 should be eligible to receive a discount. Such incentives can be extended to users of the light rapid transit system (LRT) and monorails. Give a discount to users using it every day,” he said.