Conceptualization of perceived utilization of public bus transport service: empirical evidence for Malaysia transport sustainability
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Date
2010
Authors
Choong Shiau Suan, Jacylin
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Abstract
The rising number of private vehicles and the ailing public bus transport (PBT)
service industry is a testimony that the Malaysian citizens prefer driving to utilizing
PBT. The overall improvement to the PBT is vital to encourage the modal switching
and increase the utilization rate to meet the 6th NKRA. The hitherto research has not
provided any comprehensive findings and hence prompted the conception of two
models in this study to assess the perceived utilization of PBT services to understand
the needs and expectations of commuters and non-commuters in Malaysia. The
theoretical framework was constructed based on the Theory of Reasoned Action and
the questionnaire was framed to solicit direct responses from the public. This
exploratory quantitative research was performed via online survey and personal
structured interview from 302 respondents in Penang. The empirical results showed
that the most significant service driver influencing the overall perceived utilization is
season ticket, followed by information service, ticket pricing, reliability of schedule,
safety and comfort. Reliability of schedule, safety and comfort however were not
significant on the perceived direct utilization. The findings also revealed that the
respondents aged < 26 and > 40 were the most potential commuters while monthly
salary, possession of private vehicle and status of commuter were partially influencing
the perceived utilization. The study also identified three best preferred combinations
rated by the respondents: C1, C3 and C7. The findings attempt to assist the PBT
authorities in strategic planning to increase the utilization and to sustain the PBT
service industry which could lead to economic growth and improved quality of life.
Besides, the model is flexible to allow customization by management according to its
set of constraints. Finally, the study shows its significant value with the positive
feedback from Rapid Penang and attention from the Ministry of Transport Malaysia.
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Keywords
Business Administration , Public Transport