Malaysia’s Transport Ministry has identified three major shopping malls to become licensed hubs for express bus services, particularly on the busy Kuala Lumpur-Singapore route. This move aims to end the long-standing practice of buses using unauthorized pickup and drop-off points in the city center.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke named the selected locations: the Lalaport Transport Hub in Bukit Bintang City Centre, One Utama in Petaling Jaya, and IOI City Mall in Putrajaya. A fourth mall, Sunway Pyramid, is still under evaluation.
The initiative targets safety and congestion issues. For years, express buses have operated from unlicensed spots like the areas in front of Berjaya Times Square and Corus Hotel. The new hubs will provide safer, more orderly facilities integrated with public transit.
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The Lalaport hub is expected to be the first operational, starting in February. It features dedicated bus bays, an integrated ticketing system, and direct access to the LRT and Monorail via Hang Tuah Station. The other malls must upgrade their facilities to meet safety standards before receiving operating licenses.
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Operators have been given a grace period but will be required to relocate once the hubs are ready. Minister Loke emphasized the move is about compliance and passenger safety, not forcing buses to use distant integrated terminals.
