Bus ticket policy targets foreign online agents, not operators

KUALA LUMPUR — The government's push to channel bus ticket sales through authorised terminals targets unlicensed foreign online agents rather than local bus companies, the transport ministry has clarified.

The policy seeks to ensure all ticket transactions flow through licensed terminals to improve regulatory oversight and consumer protection, officials said. The move is part of broader efforts to formalise the bus transportation sector and prevent unauthorised third-party platforms from operating in Malaysia without proper licensing or accountability mechanisms.

Bus operators themselves remain free to sell tickets through their own authorised channels, including licensed ticketing agents and official terminals. The directive does not restrict domestic bus companies from their regular commercial operations.

The clarification comes as the government intensifies efforts to regulate the transportation sector and protect consumers from potential fraud or service irregularities. Officials said the policy would help establish a more transparent and accountable bus ticket sales ecosystem while maintaining fair competition among licensed operators.