KUALA LUMPUR, July 14 — Prasarana Malaysia Berhad has launched 310 diesel buses, under the 2025 Bus Replacement programme, to enhance public transport services in the Klang Valley and Penang.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said this marks Prasarana’s final procurement of diesel buses, aligning with the government's goal to shift towards a more sustainable, environmentally friendly, and low-carbon public transport system.
“As the country’s primary public transport operator, Prasarana plays a crucial role in delivering safe, efficient, and reliable bus and train services. With the addition of these new buses, I am confident that service quality will continue to improve, offering greater comfort, safety, and accessibility to the public,” he said.
Loke added that the initiative is part of Prasarana’s long-term strategy to replace ageing assets and enhance operational capabilities, in line with the Transport Ministry's and the government’s vision to strengthen the country’s public transport system.
He was speaking at the launch ceremony of the new diesel bus today, which was also attended by Land Public Transport Agency director-general Datuk Azlan Shah Al Bakri, Prasarana Group president cum chief executive officer (CEO) Mohd Azharuddin Mat Sah, and Rapid Bus chairman Datuk Seri Mustafar Ali.
The minister noted that all 310 diesel buses, manufactured by Higer, will be deployed in stages on selected routes, particularly in densely populated areas with high passenger demand, to provide more frequent and user-friendly services.
Higer was chosen following a comprehensive evaluation, based on technical performance, safety, and reliability.
"Although these buses are imported from China, all components are fully assembled in Johor, supporting the government’s technology transfer agenda and contributing to the growth of the local automotive industry. Beyond the technical advantages, this move also helps build local expertise and create job opportunities for Malaysians.
“These buses comply with Euro 5 emission standards, one of the world’s strictest benchmarks for controlling pollutants such as nitrogen oxide (NOx). This will contribute to improved air quality, particularly in major urban centres,” he said.
Loke said his ministry is preparing for a complete transition to electric buses by 2037. The introduction of these diesel buses not only expands the current fleet but also signals the start of phasing them out, in line with Malaysia's sustainability goals.
He also reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to advancing Malaysia’s public transport sector through environmentally friendly initiatives and sustainable technology. This aligns with Prasarana’s efforts to support national policies, including the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) and the Low Carbon Mobility Blueprint (LCMB) 2021-2030.
“I am very proud of Prasarana’s strong commitment to supporting these initiatives in a strategic and effective manner, including the development of charging infrastructure, technical training, and maintenance, all of which are actively underway,” Loke said.
He also urged both the public and private sectors to continue collaborating to elevate public transport as the preferred choice for Malaysians.
In addition, Loke expressed his appreciation to Azharuddin, who concluded his term of service today, acknowledging his significant contributions to the nation’s transport sector and Prasarana’s transformation.
“Over the past two to three years, we have seen many improvements, particularly in train operations under Rapid Rail and bus services under Rapid Bus,” he said.
— Bernama
