Sentosa State Assemblyman, Wilfred Yap says DAP misunderstand the ART Project
KUCHING : Sentosa State Assemblyman, Wilfred Yap has responded firmly to recent described MP Stampin, Chong Chieng Jen’s statement as misleading and lacking a full understanding of the Sarawak government’s Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) project.
Yap criticised Chong for relying on outdated comparisons and fear-driven narratives without offering viable alternatives.
ART is a well-researched, forward-looking project that has received both international and national recognition. It is Malaysia’s first hydrogen-powered ART system and has been acknowledged by the International Association of Public Transport, as well as winning the Malaysia Technology Excellence Award for Smart City Transportation, he explained.
For Phase 1 of the ART project which spans 69.9 kilometres, covers three main lines and including major infrastructure such as hydrogen refuelling facilities, the Rembus Depot, a feeder bus network, and smart operations systems.
He said all stages of planning and implementation have been carried out transparently, with details presented in the Sarawak State Assembly.
Yap dismissed claims that the RM5 to RM6 billion allocation is solely for buses.
The budget, he said, includes land preparation, civil works, refuelling depots, integrated technology, and overall system development.
He described the ART as a vital investment in Sarawak’s future which will create thousands of jobs and support Sarawak’s position in the global hydrogen economy.
ART system is not intended to replace traditional buses but will serve as the backbone of a more efficient, integrated public transport system, addressing long-term issues like congestion, emissions, and urban sprawl, he added.
Warning Sarawakians on political figures who criticise from the sidelines but were absent during times when Sarawak lacked infrastructure and investment, Yap questioned their motives, suggesting some prefer to see the state remain dependent for political purposes.
By Connie Chieng