Ong (left) at the launch of the PLUS RFID pilot project today. With him are PLUS executives and other officials.
GEORGE TOWN: Mastercard announced today its partnership with PLUS Malaysia for the pilot launch of PLUS RFID.
Leveraging Mastercard’s payments technology, PLUS RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) is claimed to enable, safe, convenient, and seamless toll payments for highway users in the northern region of Malaysia.
The pilot programme will start on Dec 15 and be carried out at toll plazas in Penang (Penang Bridge and Butterworth-Kulim Expressway) and in Kedah (Jitra).
The partnership offers highway users an innovative payment solution that that speeds up the toll collection process as there is no longer the need to stop at the booth to hand over cash.
PLUS RFID will be rolled out in phases to all PLUS highways and made available to all Malaysians. Registration is free.
To participate in the pilot, highway users need to register at www.plusmiles.com.my/rfid. A sticker with a built-in RFID chip that is unique to each vehicle will be generated after registration. Participants can choose to register their Mastercard debit or credit card, along with their personal details.
In addition to PLUS RFID, Mastercard will expand its contactless footprint by launching the first contactless-enabled rest and relaxation station at Dengkil Southbound Rest and Service Area. The Rest and Service Area will enable local businesses to offer the convenience and speed of contactless payments to their customers.
“More than half of the world's population today live in cities, a number that is set to increase to 70 percent by 2050," said Mastercard country manager (Malaysia and Brunei) Perry Ong.
"With so many people living and working in and travelling in and out of cities, many countries face challenges in transit such as road congestion. Mastercard is proud to partner with PLUS to enable drivers to speed up their commute time and make their journeys smoother.”
