What prompted an express bus operator to cease city centre services?

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An Express Bus Operator Ceased City Centre Services Due to Regulatory Compliance Directives

An express bus operator ceased its Kuala Lumpur city centre services following instructions from the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) to adhere to regulations mandating operations exclusively at government-licensed terminals. This directive is part of APAD's ongoing initiatives to foster a more organised and secure environment for express bus services nationwide, aligning with established legal frameworks. The situation was also influenced by the Corus KLCC Hotel ending its collaboration with the operator in January 2026, as the site was designated for redevelopment by a private developer.
Regulatory Non-Compliance Led to Service Cessation

The operator's decision to stop providing services in the Kuala Lumpur city centre stemmed directly from APAD's directive to comply with regulations that stipulate operations must be conducted solely from government-licensed terminals. This enforcement action is not specific to any single company but is a broader measure applied across all express bus operators. APAD's aim is to ensure that express bus services across the country operate in a more orderly and safe manner, in accordance with existing laws.
Site Redevelopment Contributed to Operational Changes

A significant factor in the operator's operational shift was the end of its cooperation with the Corus KLCC Hotel in January 2026. This cessation occurred because the hotel site was subsequently taken over by a private developer for redevelopment purposes. This change necessitated a relocation for the bus operator's services, which were then subject to APAD's regulations regarding terminal usage.
Transition Period and Enforcement Moratorium

APAD acknowledged that a temporary enforcement moratorium was put in place during the transition period to allow operators time to relocate to licensed terminals. However, the agency stressed that this moratorium did not constitute an endorsement of the Tun Razak Exchange (TRX) as an approved terminal. Despite a grace period of nearly five months, one operator reportedly refused to relocate to authorised terminals or transport hubs, leading to enforcement action being issued in May 2026 to ensure full compliance.
Unlicensed Locations Pose Safety Risks

APAD has consistently maintained that it has not issued any licence or approval for TRX or any location within its vicinity to function as a legal express bus terminal or transport hub. The agency emphasised that prolonged operation at a particular location does not automatically grant it terminal status, and TRX itself has not applied to be recognised as a bus terminal. Enforcement, effective from May 19, 2026, targets boarding and disembarking activities at unlicensed locations for all express bus operators, aiming to enhance passenger safety, reduce city centre congestion, and promote the effective utilisation of structured public transport infrastructure.

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What prompted an express bus operator to cease city centre services?

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