Public opinion on Malayan Railway Limited (KTMB) is often divided. Some passengers have praised the service for its comfort, facilities and cleanliness, while others have raised concerns over maintenance — particularly in light of various reports questioning its safety and efficiency.
Netizens have once again expressed their disappointment following reports that the company will begin charging passengers — including persons with disabilities (OKU) and senior citizens — an additional RM5 for over-the-counter ticket purchases. Here’s what happened:
According to local reports, KTMB has begun charging an additional RM5 to passengers who purchase tickets manually at station counters. Typically, senior citizens and persons with disabilities (OKU) would be exempt from such charges, but in this case, they are also affected and must make the additional payment. To avoid the extra fee, passengers are encouraged to buy their tickets online.
The move has sparked debate among netizens, many of whom have expressed disappointment, citing that the online purchasing method is not particularly convenient, especially for senior citizens and those who are visually impaired. Others have suggested that KTMB should instead offer a RM5 discount for online purchases, as this would encourage more passengers to use the digital option without penalising those who rely on in-person services.
Although the Ministry of Transportation has yet to respond to the media’s inquiries regarding the charges, KTMB issued a statement yesterday (Thursday, 10th April) to address everyone’s concerns. According to the statement, the extra RM5 charges is part of its annual review of the Flexi Fare pricing system, which adjusts ticket prices based on a range of factors.
Addressing concerns about senior citizens and OKU passengers, the company stated that concession fares, with discounts of up to 50% for both groups, are available across all purchasing methods, whether online or at the counter. “Senior citizens, pensioners, and people with disabilities only need to register once, either online or at the station, to enjoy these benefits through any ticketing channel,” the statement reads.
KTMB also reassured the public that staff will always be available to assist the elderly and visually impaired passengers during the registration and ticket purchasing process. Read the full statement below:
Sources: TheRakyatPost, Twitter, FMT (1)(2)
