50% Toll Discount for Chinese New Year Announced
The Malaysian government has decided to implement a 50% discount on toll charges in conjunction with Chinese New Year celebrations, instead of waiving toll fees entirely. This move will cost the government RM20.08 million in compensation to toll concessionaires.
Discount Details
•Effective Period: From 12.01am on Jan 27 to 11.59pm on Jan 28.
•Eligibility: Applies only to Class 1 private vehicles.
•Exemptions: The discount does not apply at border toll plazas, including the Sultan Iskandar Building and Tanjung Kupang toll plazas.
Government’s Approach to Toll Waivers
Works Minister Alexander Nanta Linggi clarified the decision, stating that the government aims to reduce reliance on toll waivers during festive seasons, opting for a “more targeted approach” instead.
“The toll exemptions in 2023 and 2024 cost the government RM356.18 million, and discontinuing them will save RM190 million annually,” Nanta said.
The government plans to announce further details on this new approach soon.
Balancing Cost and Relief
The decision reflects the government’s efforts to balance financial sustainability while offering relief to highway users. The RM20.08 million compensation for the Chinese New Year toll discount demonstrates a middle-ground approach that avoids fully scrapping festive toll reliefs while controlling costs.
Stay tuned for updates on the government’s future toll policies and their long-term impact on public expenditure.
