SHAH ALAM, Sept 10 — Several local authorities in Selangor are switching their Smart Selangor bus services to minibuses to improve efficiency, cut operating costs, and better serve routes with narrow roads.
The move is part of efforts to strengthen the state's public transport network while meeting residents’ daily mobility needs.
Among those to have made the switch is the Subang Jaya City Council (MBSJ), which converted five Smart Selangor Bus routes (SJ01 to SJ05) to 20-seater minibuses following the appointment of a new contractor in May.
Some local councils have also opted to downsize 40-seater buses to medium-sized vehicles with 26 to 28 seats.
Checks found that while several councils have already rolled out minibuses, others are still in the application stage, with some planning adjustments by next year.
Several local councillors told Media Selangor that smaller buses are a more practical and effective option for routes with lower ridership or those navigating narrow roads.
Routes that previously saw low passenger numbers were adjusted after switching to minibuses, with new residential areas added to the coverage. They noted that the service now benefits more residents and has received very positive feedback.
MBSJ local councillor Tey Boon Kiat said 14 minibuses now serve routes SJ01 to SJ05, with the shift made primarily to navigate narrow roads.
In Kampung Baru Seri Kembangan, for example, vehicles often park on both sides of the road, making it difficult for larger buses to pass, leading to congestion and delays.
Sabak Bernam District Council (MDSB) councillor Wong Ah Chia said there are three Smart Selangor Bus routes under MDSB’s administration, with only the Sungai Panjang route having switched to a 28-seater minibus. The change has boosted passenger numbers.
“By using smaller buses, it is not only easier to navigate narrow residential roads, but we can also add new stops to benefit more residents,” he said.
Hulu Selangor Municipal Council (MPHS) councillor Law Suet Peng said since February 1, three bus routes — HS02, HS03A, and HS03B — have switched to 26-seater minibuses to save on costs and better match lower passenger demand.
In Petaling Jaya, councillor Ong Yew Thai said the city council is considering switching part of its 20-bus fleet to minibuses beginning next year to improve efficiency.
