Thirteen out of 33 highway concessionaires in Malaysia have not yet agreed to the implementation of the multi-lane free-flow (MLFF) gateless toll collection system, Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan told the Dewan Rakyat today.
Negotiations with all concession companies are ongoing, with a deadline set for December 16, 2024. The MLFF system, which eliminates physical toll booths in favour of automated electronic toll collection, is already in use in countries such as Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand.
Ahmad highlighted the complexities involved, stating that the MLFF system represents a “concession over a concession” arrangement.
“We have 33 highway concessionaires, but not all of them are on board yet. As of now, 20 companies are engaged in negotiations, while 13 are still holding out. If we fail to secure unanimous agreement by December 16, we will propose alternative solutions,” Ahmad said in response to a question from Muhammad Fawwaz Mohamad Jan (PN-Permatang Pauh).
Legal Adjustments Needed
The deputy minister acknowledged that the transition to a gateless toll system would require amendments to existing laws, particularly those addressing toll payment evasion.
“Toll booths currently enable the identification of vehicles that evade payments. However, under a system without physical gates, the potential for toll evasion could increase. Laws must be amended to ensure compliance and effectively penalize offenders,” Ahmad explained.
He noted that while toll evasion is rare—accounting for only 0.01% of motorists—issues such as gate-ramming or tailgating would need to be mitigated in the MLFF setup.
Decision Pending by December 16
On November 21, Ahmad informed Parliament that the government would decide on the MLFF toll system’s implementation by the December deadline.
The proposed system is part of Malaysia’s efforts to modernise its infrastructure and reduce congestion at toll plazas. However, securing the agreement of all concessionaires and addressing legal and operational challenges remain critical to its successful rollout.
More updates are expected following the December 16 negotiation deadline.
