School Bus Fares To Increase Up To RM300 Starting January 2023
The high cost of vehicle maintenance and the increase in drivers' wages are the reasons behind the increase in school bus fares.
By Nurul Qistina — 30 Dec 2022, 12:23 PM
Parents aren't very thrilled to learn that the school bus fare will increase up to RM300 a month starting in January 2023
According to Kosmo, the school bus operators notified parents about the fee hike last week and requested that they pay by Tuesday, 3 January.
Most parents claimed that the increased fare is excessive, and the bus operators are allegedly trying to take advantage of the high cost of living.
The high cost of vehicle maintenance and the increase in drivers' wages are the reasons behind the rise in school bus fares
A bus operator in his 40s, known as Ramesh, said the action was in line with the current economic situation.
"There are many reasons why I need to raise the school bus fare next year. We have to bear the high maintenance and repair costs of vans or school buses every month to ensure that the vehicle is always in a good and safe condition," Kosmo quoted him as saying.
"Not only that, but I also have to think about the welfare of school van drivers. Some have already spoken out for a salary increase next year and I have to fulfil it."
"Currently, it is not easy to employ drivers, especially since many of them have switched to other jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic. If anything, many are already in their 50s."
However, another school van driver shared that he won't force any parents or guardians to abide by the new fare rates
"I had to raise the new fare by only RM20 per person to cover the cost of living for myself and my family. This does not include the damage cost of the van," said 49-year-old entrepreneur and van driver Ahmad.
"I have to support my wife and five children who are still in school. I won't force any parents to pay according to the new fare because many students still need school van services at this time."
