Labuan International Ferry Terminal Begins Operations
By Rosli Abidin Yahya

Bandar Seri Begawan – After several delays, the RM30million Labuan International Ferry Terminal (LIFT) began its operations at the start of the New Year, but caught many passengers, who were heading for the old terminal, by surprise.

Some Bruneians commented that it has hastily been opened and there was no system yet properly in place.

There were also confusions over ticket purchases, they remarked.

Dubbed as Borneo's "Showpiece" ferry terminal, Labuan's Corporation Chief Executive Officer Abidin Arshad, who made an appearance there, told them that immediate measures would be taken to rectify the problem.

He added that the terminal was not yet officially opened, although it has started operations.

Under LDA Holdings, which is an investment of Labuan Corporation, it was supposed to begin operations in October 2004, but based on the contract awarded, the date was later changed to October 2005, then last December.

The new terminal was designed for all launches to Brunei, KK, Limbang and Lawas.

Even water taxis serving Labuan, Sipitang and Menumbok would have to go through it.

Handling fees have also been increased from 50 cents to RM5 (about B$2.50) for Brunei, RM3 for domestic routes and RM2 for water taxis.

The new ferry terminal, considered one of the most modern and sophisticated in Borneo, is able to absorb more than 1,000 passengers at a time, compared to previously 700.

The terminal also comprises various com ponents, such as a jetty, passenger terminal building and offices of Labuan government agencies, including the Malaysian Royal Custom and Immigration Department.

It also has a duty-free shop, Muslim praying room, car park and a large waiting area. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

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