SUNGAI PETANI: The Transport Ministry will expand the implementation of the MyLesen programme to include Class E (Bus) Public Service Vehicle (PSV) licence in an effort to enhance the bus service industry.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke said that based on information from bus service operators, there was currently a shortage of bus drivers in the country.

"We have a shortage of bus drivers, whether for regular buses or express buses. It is difficult to obtain bus drivers, not only is it challenging to recruit them but also to retain them. That's why we are implementing this programme to train drivers to obtain the licence.

"We want to produce competent and courteous drivers to ensure that the bus service industry is more competitive and safe. This is crucial," he said during a press conference after the national-level launch of the MyLesen B2 Programme at Purest Hotel in Sungai Petani today.

Also present was Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.

Loke said that many of the local bus drivers had migrated to work in Singapore due to higher income opportunities there.

"This is also one of the reasons why we lack bus drivers and that's why we intend to implement a programme to train and provide licences to bus drivers.

"The programme is similar to what we are launching today where eligible candidates will attend classes at driving institutes and sit for exams. All expenses will be borne by the government, we expect to implement this programme by year end," he added.

Loke said a total of 9,000 candidates from the B40 group had benefitted from the MyLesen B2 Programme.

"A sum of RM2.7 million has been allocated, covering the costs of tests and training, with a cost of RM300 per candidate. Today, 306 candidates will participate in the programme for the first group, and it will continue nationwide.

"We are also prepared to collaborate with other agencies, including the Rural and Regional Development Ministry and other agencies, to further expand this programme, but the allocation will come from the respective agencies," he said.

He added that the MyLesen B2 Programme, which aimed to assist the B40 group in obtaining Class B2 (motorcycle) driving licence, was one of the initiatives under the 2023 Budget implemented by the Transport Ministry through the Road Transport Department.

"The government hopes that this initiative can assist the B40 group facing economic challenges in obtaining the Malaysia Class B2 Driving Licence and produce competent and safe motorcyclists," he added.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2023/05/914906/mylesen-programme-be-expanded-include-bus-licence-says-loke