IKMAR provides discounted tickets for Johor students

By Chong Wan Chi

Johor students of different races take the bus together to go back to USM. Photo by Chong Wan Chi

MAIN CAMPUS, 14th December- In a bid to ease the burden on Johor students returning to Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) after the Raya break, the Ikatan Mahasiswa Johor (IKMAR) has organized a special bus service, providing both affordability and convenience.

According to the president of IKMAR, Siti Nur Ain Yusra Edy Yusri, said that IKMAR is a registered student association under the purview of Bahagian Hal Ehwal & Pembangunan Pelajar (BHEPP) at USM, has long been committed to fostering unity among Johor students and supporting their academic and personal development.

“Firstly, the initiative offered significantly lower bus fares compared to standard prices, thus alleviating the financial strain on students. With fares ranging from RM65 to RM75, depending on membership status, students could enjoy affordable transportation back to campus,” she explained.

The deputy treasurer of IKMAR, Siti Noor Huda Qistina Rasid, said that the proceeds from the bus service would contribute to IKMAR’s financial resources, enabling the association to fund future programs and provide assistance to Johor students.

“The buses made stops at various points including Larkin, Kluang, Batu Pahat, and Muar before arriving at USM’s main campus and the Engineering campus. A total of 34 students availed themselves of this service, with 20 from Larkin, 4 each from Kluang and Batu Pahat, and 6 from Muar. Additionally, 26 students disembarked at the main campus while 8 reached the Engineering campus,” Qistina listed out.

“Departures were scheduled at different times from various locations, with buses leaving Larkin at 8:30 p.m., Kluang at 10:20 p.m. by 13th April, Batu Pahat at 12:00 a.m., and Muar at 1:30 a.m. The arrival time at the main campus was 10:00 a.m., while those reaching the Engineering campus arrived at 9:00 a.m by 14th April,” she continued.

Yusra added that the buses provided direct routes to USM’s main campus and the Engineering campus, eliminating the need for students to arrange alternative transportation upon arrival in Penang.