Ferry operators urge urgent dredging of Kuala Kedah, Kuala Perlis lanes, warn silted routes could disrupt Langkawi schedules during peak season

ALOR SETAR, Aug 30 — Ferry operators in Langkawi are urging the federal government to hasten dredging in the shipping lanes of Kuala Kedah and Kuala Perlis, as the routes are currently silted, posing safety concerns and potential disruptions to ferry schedules. Lieutenant Commander (Retired) Norhafiz Abdul Wahid, operations manager of Ferry Line Ventures Sdn Bhd, highlighted that the declining depth of the shipping lanes not only escalates the risk to passenger ferries but can also lead to schedule delays and travel disruptions.

Ferry services are crucial for Langkawi's transportation and directly support the nation's tourism industry. Historically, these services have transported up to 25,000 tourists daily during peak periods. Norhafiz emphasized that prompt dredging is necessary to prevent potential issues with ferry operations, particularly during peak seasons, including the upcoming Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA).

He also stressed the need for regular, comprehensive dredging to maintain safety and accommodate increasing passenger volumes. Additionally, Norhafiz announced 176 regular ferry trips and 66 extra trips scheduled between August 27 and September 6 to accommodate school holidays and National Day crowds, expecting around 90,000 passengers to traverse the main routes: Langkawi-Kuala Perlis-Langkawi and Langkawi-Kuala Kedah-Langkawi.

So far, 86,978 tickets have been sold through online platforms, counters, and reservations. Norhafiz affirmed that ferry readiness would be at a high level throughout the school holiday season and National Day.