KERETAPI Tanah Melayu (KTMB) has improved its guidelines on charter trains following the recent Pink Fish Festival controversy.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook said the improvement includes the involvement of a senior staff member to ensure that the programme held on the train adhered to the stipulated terms and conditions.
In a written parliamentary reply to Pokok Sena MP Datuk Ahmad Saad @ Yahaya on Tuesday (June 25), Loke explained that the charter train service operated by KTMB is a special service for customers such as government-linked companies, government agencies, private companies from within and outside the country as well as associations.
“The activities planned on this special rental train are determined by the customer based on the guidelines, terms and conditions set by KTMB,” Loke stated.
“Referring to the issue of the Charter Train on May 16, 2024 that travelled from the Kuala Lumpur station to Serendah, KTMB has set terms and conditions such as the prohibition of smoking, alcohol consumption, drug abuse and not doing things that may violate the law.
“The customer has agreed to comply with the terms and conditions set by KTMB.”
Controversy erupted after a video showcasing a KTMB train being transformed into a nightclub-like party venue was posted on Instagram by food blogger KL Foodie on May 19.
The video depicted a KTMB carriage filled with flashing lights and attendees dancing to music, resembling a club-like atmosphere.
The event, dubbed the “Pinkfish Express”, was held on May 16 to celebrate the first anniversary of the Pinkfish Music & Arts Festival, which took place on April 30, 2023.
PAS information chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari had urged KTMB to reconsider allowing such events, stating that the over-the-top entertainment culture highlighted in the viral video does not reflect the values of Rukun Negara and tarnishes the name of KTMB, which is a national asset.
He said regardless the reason used to justify the programme such as for revenue generation, it is still unacceptable for this is seen as contrary to the philosophy of Madani Malaysia orchestrated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
UMNO Youth chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh had similarly questioned KTMB’s decision to allow the private party to be held on the charter train.
Taking to TikTok, Akmal expressed his concerns over KTMB permitting such an event, given the involvement of Muslim Malay leadership within the company. He also questioned whether KTMB’s motivation was solely to generate revenue. – June 25, 2024
Main pic credit: Kosmo Digital
