No decision yet on waiving tolls for Deepavali, Dewan Rakyat told

KUALA LUMPUR: There has been no decision reached yet on waiving toll fees in conjunction with the coming Deepavali celebrations on Nov 12.

Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad told the Dewan Rakyat today that there had been no discussions yet and approval would be needed from the Finance Ministry.

"The Works Ministry will make the announcement on whether toll fees will be waived for Deepavali, once it is approved.

"Either way, I support this,” he added in reply to RSN Rayer (PH-Jelutong) who asked if there would be a toll-free period for Deepavali.

“It is happening this week. Will the government announce any toll-free periods seeing as it's a long holiday?

“Not just those celebrating will be travelling, but also Malaysians who will be going on holiday.

“We are eagerly waiting for this announcement," Rayer said.

Separately, Abdul Rahman said the multi-lane fast flow (MLFF) toll collection system would enter its trial phase next year.

He added that the government had conducted a number of studies on the best methods for toll collection.

“We want to see (if MLFF) is suitable for use. I have observed this method and seen many countries using it efficiently.

“We have also received views from fellow MPs on ways to make toll collection more efficient in Malaysia,” he said.

MLFF is a barrier-free system that uses a gantry without designated booths or lanes, with toll fees collected using radio-frequency identification (RFID) devices that work together with an automated number plate recognition (ANPR) system.

Abdul Rahman was responding to Afnan Hamimi Taib Azamudden (PN-Alor Setar), who asked if barrier-free toll collection would be implemented.

Afnan Hamimi said despite alternative payment methods, such as the use of debit cards at toll plazas, these still required physical interaction at collection points, which could cause congestion.