Bus company Konsortium's travel agent license revoked after it stops operation

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) on Thursday said that it has revoked the travel agent license of Konsortium Express and Tours after the company said it had ceased all services from Thursday (22 February).

According to media reports, people who turned up at Konsortium’s head office at Golden Mile Tower found the doors of the office locked. A notice on the door said the agency was facing a “financial crisis”.

Konsortium, which specialises in coach trips to Malaysia, said in the notice pasted on its office door and on its website that it would cease all services with immediate effect and added, “We are deeply apologetic for the sudden closure and we seek your forgiveness.”

“The revocation is due to Konsortium’s announcement that it has ceased operation since 22 February 2018 as stated in notices posted at its office and website,” said the STB statement.

STB advised affected consumers who had purchased travel insurance prior to Konsortium’s closure to approach their insurance providers for assistance. Those who are not covered by travel insurance can seek help from the Consumers Association of Singapore or the Small Claims Tribunal, where appropriate, added STB.

In addition, NATAS’s Surface Transport Committee is rallying local transport operators to take over affected bookings if necessary, said STB.

“We would like to take this opportunity to remind consumers to take measures to protect themselves, such as paying by instalments and purchasing travel insurance that provides coverage for unforeseen events such as when a travel agent becomes insolvent,” said STB.

Konsortium is a popular choice with travellers wanting to return to Malaysia over the Chinese New Year period.