Buses in Penang: Routes, Fares & Guide
Public buses: Rapid Penang and free CAT buses
Penang has one public bus operator, Rapid Penang, which runs both the paid island-wide routes and the free CAT loop around George Town. Fares are RM 1.40–5.00 by distance. Buses are the cheapest way to get around and offer an authentic local experience.
Bus Fares
Hours of Operation
Most island routes run from about 5:30-6 AM until 10:30-11:30 PM (the 101 to Batu Ferringhi: last bus 11:30 pm from Weld Quay; 11:00 pm from Teluk Bahang). The free CAT runs 6:00 am to 11:45 pm (last departure), daily, every 10–15 minutes.
How to Pay
Cash must be the exact fare: the farebox gives no change. Keep the printed ticket until you get off. Stored-value cards and passes are accepted. Rapid Penang's own fare page does not list which bank or e-wallet cards work, so ask at a Rapid Penang kiosk (Weld Quay, Komtar) before relying on one. Rapid Passport: RM 30 for 7 days of unlimited rides (tourists, Malaysian or foreign), bought at a Rapid Penang information kiosk.
Advantages
- +Cheap (RM 1.40–5.00 per ride, by distance)
- +CAT buses are completely free in George Town
- +Extensive island-wide route network
- +Authentic local experience
- +Good for budget travelers
- +Published fare table, no haggling
Disadvantages
- -Slower than Grab (can take 30-60 minutes)
- -No guarantee of English signage on buses
- -Can be very crowded during peak hours
- -Irregular schedule - buses may arrive late
- -Some routes run only hourly or less (102 about every 75 minutes, 401 hourly)
- -Cash must be exact: the farebox gives no change
- -Routes can be confusing for visitors
Top Tips
- •Carry coins and small notes: cash fares must be exact
- •Keep the ticket the validator prints until you get off, as inspectors check
- •Use Moovit or Google Maps to plan routes and see arrivals
- •Peak hours 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM can be very crowded
- •CAT buses are perfect for George Town exploration - totally free
- •Ask locals for help - people are friendly and helpful
- •Ride during daytime until you're comfortable with routes
- •Popular routes: 401E (airport to Komtar and Weld Quay), 101 (George Town to Batu Ferringhi and Teluk Bahang), 204 (Penang Hill)