Users of the bicycle-sharing system in Penang now have the option to use the Link Bike Card instead of downloading the mobile app to use the service.

Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said users could choose to register or top up the amount of the card via credit card or cash at the Link Bike office here, and it is simple and easy to use immediately upon signing up.

"It would be a great addition to those preferring to use the card rather than the app... by tapping the card on the dock, you can ride the bicycle.

"The bicycle-sharing system is a public transportation service which provides users point-to-point transportation for short distances around Penang island and the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) has spent RM1.85 million for this green project," he said at a press conference in Penang today.

The system allowed users to pick up a bicycle at any of the self-serve bike stations strategically located in the network and return it to any bike station at their convenience, he added.

Since the launch of the sharing system last January, with 250 bicycles and 22 bike stations, it has achieved 8,583 ridership to date.

- Bernama