He said the initiative introduced by Sarawak Metro Sdn Bhd would help strengthen the long-term sustainability of KUTS as the project progresses towards operational readiness.

“Equally important is ensuring that the system remains financially sustainable in the years ahead. That is why I am particularly encouraged to see Sarawak Metro taking the initiative to introduce the Station Naming Rights Programme,” Lee said.

He said this in his speech during the KUTS SM07 Station Naming Rights Signing Ceremony between Sarawak Metro and Ibraco Berhad which was graced by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at The Northbank Station (SM07) here on Saturday.

Lee said the programme reflected Sarawak Metro’s efforts to adopt international best practices while creating innovative revenue opportunities to support KUTS.

“As a state-owned enterprise, Sarawak Metro has demonstrated that it is not only focused on delivering infrastructure, but also on creating innovative revenue opportunities that will strengthen the long-term sustainability of KUTS,” he said.

He added that modern public transportation systems could not rely solely on passenger fares, with strategic commercial partnerships such as transit-oriented development (TOD), station naming rights, advertising and retail opportunities helping to diversify revenue sources.

Lee also congratulated Ibraco Berhad for becoming the first strategic partner under the programme, saying the collaboration demonstrated private sector confidence in the long-term potential of Sarawak’s public transportation system.

“I hope today’s signing will encourage more corporations, institutions and local businesses to collaborate with Sarawak Metro as we continue building a transportation ecosystem that is innovative, commercially sustainable and beneficial to the people of Sarawak,” he said.

On the progress of KUTS, Lee said the project had achieved several key milestones and was gradually transitioning from the construction phase towards system integration and operational readiness.

He said works were progressing across the alignment, stations, depot facilities and supporting systems, while development of the Stage 1 Hydrogen Production Plant and associated facilities at the Rembus Depot was also advancing well.

“The facility is a critical component of the KUTS ecosystem, supporting the operation of the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) system while reflecting Sarawak’s commitment towards sustainable and green mobility,” he said.

Once operational, the hydrogen production plant would be capable of producing up to one tonne of green hydrogen per day to support pilot operations and the commencement of ART services, he added.

Lee also highlighted the recent arrival and assembly of the first two ART vehicles in Kuching, describing it as an important step towards the operational deployment of KUTS.

“This marks an important step towards the operational deployment of KUTS and enables the integration of the vehicles with the supporting infrastructure, systems and operational requirements,” he said.

He said the Ministry of Transport Sarawak remained committed to supporting Sarawak Metro in implementing initiatives to strengthen KUTS and ensure it continued to serve communities for generations to come.

The signing ceremony saw Ibraco Berhad become the first corporate partner under Sarawak Metro’s Station Naming Rights Programme, with SM07 officially named The Northbank IBRACO ART Station.

Among those present at the ceremony were Ibraco Group managing director Datuk Chew Chiaw Han and Sarawak Metro chief executive officer Mazli Mustaffa.

Credits: Jude Toyat, The Borneo Post 2026