By Selangor Journal Team
KUALA LUMPUR, May 29 — ETransact Technology Sdn Bhd, a leading online bus ticket provider, is spearheading a transformative shift in bus ticket purchases by urging consumers to ditch traditional counter transactions, in favour of convenient online options.
Its managing director Shahizam Ibrahim said that despite being in the business for nearly 20 years, around 60 per cent of bus tickets are still purchased in person at counters, with only 40 per cent purchased online.
“However, online transactions are gaining traction, particularly among the younger generation, who value the convenience it offers. While it remains a challenge for us, we are continuously educating people about the benefits of purchasing bus tickets online and the convenience it brings.
“Yet, some individuals still prefer the counter experience for the human interaction and assurance it provides. We aim to change this perception as there are more efficient ways to purchase bus tickets,” he told Selangor Journal during the Top E-commerce and Merchant Award (Top ECM) Awards 2023, held at the Hilton Kuala Lumpur on Saturday (May 27).
Shahizam’s company operates ETicketing.my, an online bus ticket platform that processes 25,000 trips and 400,000 transactions daily, resulting in RM8 million in ticket sales on average daily.
The increasing acceptance of online bus tickets was underscored by ETransact Technology securing first-place at the awards, an accolade honouring successful online-based businesses.
Outshining 601 other participants, the company was recognised for its efforts by the Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec).
Established in 2003, he said ETransact Technology ventured into online sales in 2006 when the concept was still in its infancy.
Shahizam emphasised the significant growth of online sales, which were particularly accelerated by the Covid-19 pandemic, and praised the affordability and convenience of bus travel compared to trains or aeroplanes.
He highlighted the advancements in bus station design, such as the Shah Alam Bus Station in Section 17, which resembles an airport, demonstrating the direction the industry should take.
“In the future, I envision a fully online process for ticket sales and onboarding, eliminating the need for physical tickets. This seamless process can be easily carried out through your phone,” Shahizam said.
