Bus companies are refusing to selling advance tickets for the upcoming Hari Raya until the government allows an increase in ticket prices.

The Star

reported that bus companies want to raise ticket prices to all destinations, with Pan Malaysia Bus Operators Association president Ashfar Ali reportedly saying bus companies had met the Land Public Transport Commission (Spad) officials last month to seek the increase.

He said companies face rising costs of 36 per cent since the last increase in 2008.

It was reported that bus companies are proposing price increases such as - RM31.30 to RM40.43 from Klang valley to Johor Baru, Malacca (RM12.30 to RM15.99), Kuala Terengganu (RM40 to RM52), Kota Baru (RM40 to RM52.30),  Penang (RM35 to RM45.50) and Alor Setar (RM40 to RM52).

“If the operators were to sell advance tickets for the next two months now, it would mean heavy losses if the fare increase materialises.

“We cannot sell now and then go back to customers to pay more later,” Ashfar said.

Ashfar suggested that as an interim measure, Spad permits a 30 percent surcharge in tcket prices during the festive season.

The daily stated that while Spad had listened to the proposal, it has yet to make any decision.

It further reported that consumers are concerned that the delay in ticket sales would cause a massive last-minute rush.