Types of transport
Transport is the way people and goods are moved from one place to another. In Malaysia, transport is divided into three main types:
- Land transport: cars, buses, lorries, trains (KTM, LRT, MRT) and motorcycles.
- Water transport: ships, ferries, barges and boats that use rivers and the sea.
- Air transport: aeroplanes and helicopters that use airports.
Key idea
The three types of transport are land, water and air. Each type suits a different need — speed, cost and the kind of goods.
Importance of transport
Transport links rural areas with towns, moves farm produce and manufactured goods to markets, and encourages tourism. A good transport system speeds up the economic development of a country.
Example
An aeroplane is best for fast long-distance travel, while a ship is the cheapest way to carry heavy, bulky goods in large quantities.
Remember
Air = fastest; water = cheapest for heavy and bulky goods; land = most flexible for short distances.
Transport in Malaysia
Malaysia has a well-developed transport network: highways such as the North–South Expressway, major ports such as Port Klang, and international airports such as KLIA. The choice of transport depends on the distance, cost, speed needed and the kind of goods. Transport is also closely linked with telecommunications in speeding up trade, investment and the connection between urban and rural areas.