Rapid bus services will be extended to all state capitals in stages from this year, in line with the Budget 2013's aspiration of providing quality and efficient transport services for the people.

Rapid Bus Sdn Bhd's chief executive officer, Zohari Sulaiman said the government was committed to expanding bus services.

"Our plan is to meet the mandate and start operations in all state capitals from this year.

"In 2013, we are planning for Rapid bus services in Kota Bahru. We had already made the preparations for this earlier, but deferred the start.

"With the greenlight given (by the government), it should take off this year," he told reporters after breaking fast with RapidPenang staff yesterday.

On whether electric buses would be introduced in Penang, Zohari said there are no plans for this, but the first pilot project, the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Sunway Line, is being readied for the launchpad.

The project is expected to be in operation by 2015.

"We plan to have a few buses under the pilot project. Whether that extends to other operational areas will be decided later," said Zohari, who is also Prasarana's group director for bus division.

With an estimated cost of RM300 million, the project will be implemented under a public-private partnership between Prasarana and Sunway Bhd.

The proposed BRT-Sunway Line will provide eco-friendly bus services on elevated tracks for visitors to Sunway Resort City and residents in Bandar Sunway and Subang Jaya.

Commenting on the operations in Penang, Zohari said RapidPenang would have 400 reliable buses by end-2014 to provide a full and efficient public transport service for Penangites.

He said RapidPenang would add another 200 new European-made buses, of which the first 80 units are expected to arrive before year-end, and the rest by the end of next year.

Zohari said of the 120 buses, 40 units would be double-decker buses, adding, it was an exclusive ride offered for Penangites.