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Good news for Malaysians heading to Penang for Thaipusam this year
The Penang Port Commission (PPC) and Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPSB) are offering free ferry rides between the mainland and the island to make your festival travel easier.
The complimentary service will run from midnight on 31 January until 3am on 2 February, covering two-way trips between Sultan Abdul Halim Terminal (Butterworth) and Raja Tun Uda Terminal (George Town)
The initiative is part of efforts to reduce traffic congestion, encourage the use of public transport, and ease travel for devotees during the busy festival period.
According to the New Straits Times, PPC chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin shared that last year's Thaipusam saw over 25,000 foot passengers and nearly 8,000 two-wheeled vehicles use the ferry over three days, highlighting just how important the service is during major religious events.
Foot passengers typically save RM2 per trip, while two-wheeled vehicles save RM2.50, so the free service is a nice bonus.
For families, there's a little extra perk too
As part of the commission's 70th anniversary, the 'Kids Go Free | Thaipusam Special' campaign at the Penang Ferry Museum allows Malaysian children aged 12 and below to enjoy free entry from 31 January to 2 February.
A few tips if you're planning to hop on a ferry: Malaysian citizens must present their MyKad or MyKid at the terminal to enjoy the free rides, and it's a good idea to check the latest ferry schedules to plan your journey.
Here's the schedule:
