PETALING JAYA: Public transport operators are assuring commuters that their fleets remain safe, even with the availability of on-board charging facilities.

Maraliner CEO Zachary Ismail Zee Ismail, a stagecoach and express bus operator, said his company was deeply concerned by the recent tragic incident involving a bus passenger.

Safety First: Operators are committed to working closely with authorities and coaching producers to implement rigorous safety controls. – WEAK BOON TAT/The Star

On November 1, an 18-year-old was found dead at the Penang Sentral bus terminal after being electrocuted while charging his mobile phone at an on-board socket.

Investigation revealed burn marks on the victim’s fingers, believed to be caused by electrocution during the phone charging incident.

“As one of the industry’s leading players, Maraliner is deeply concerned by the recent tragic incident involving electrocution on a bus. The safety and well-being of passengers remains our top priority,” said Zachary, who oversees a fleet of 400 buses nationwide.

“We recognize that on-board charging facilities are a common feature offered by many bus operators to improve passenger convenience. However, it is crucial to ensure that these equipment meet strict safety standards,” he said, adding that Maraliner is committed to working closely with authorities and coaching manufacturers to implement rigorous security controls and improvements.

“Most of our buses are equipped with USB charging ports, which we ensure have the necessary safety measures. We believe a collaborative approach between industry stakeholders is essential to prevent such incidents and maintain public confidence in the safety of bus travel,” he told the Star.

Rail transport operators are also stepping up their safety assurances, with KTM Bhd saying it views the latest incident with concern.

“KTMB would like to assure the public that we are committed to the safety and comfort of our passengers.

“As a train operator in Malaysia, it is our responsibility to ensure that our passengers reach their destinations safely, especially on our fleet of ETS trains, which provide access to power outlets for passenger convenience” , KTMB said in a statement.

“The plug point provides 240V AC and USB to 5V DC power for charging purposes.

“We want to reassure passengers that these power levels are designed to be completely safe to use. The design of the high voltage and low voltage systems is completely separate to avoid any risk to users.

“Protective measures are also in place, such as leakage current protection, which cuts off the power supply if it detects abnormal current flow,” the statement said.

“KTMB complies with the 1994 Safety and Health Policy and the 2001 Electrical Safety Policy, which are under the jurisdiction of the Energy Commission.

Elsewhere, Express Rail Link Sdn Bhd, operator of the dedicated rail line from KL Sentral to KLIA, was still formulating its response to the Star at press time yesterday.

ERL trains have a few sockets on board that can be used by passengers.