No More Free Tolls For Malaysians During Festivities
This applies to the upcoming Chinese New Year week.
By Tamara Jayne — 21 Jan 2025, 02:37 PM
Starting this year, Malaysians will no longer enjoy the usual toll exemptions during festive periods
The government has decided to move away from offering free tolls for holidays, a policy that has been in place for many years.
Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi confirmed the change, explaining that the cabinet has chosen to implement a more targeted approach to subsidies, reported the New Straits Times.
This decision is part of the government's broader efforts to ensure that subsidies are directed to those who need them most.
"According to the (cabinet) decision, there will be no more free tolls. This also applies to the upcoming Chinese New Year next week," said Nanta
He added that if any future changes are made, the government will make announcements, but for now, 2024 marked the final year for toll-free holidays.
According to Berita Harian, the government spent the following on toll exemptions during festive seasons last year:
- Hari Raya Aidilfitri: RM80.07 million
- Deepavali: RM42.31 million
- Chinese New Year: RM41.21 million
- Christmas: RM38 million
In addition to the toll policy shift, Nanta mentioned that the government is realigning subsidies to be more targeted. More details on this will be shared soon.
Nanta also addressed preparations for the monsoon season, noting that his ministry has identified over 1,000 high-risk slope locations to ensure safety during the heavy rains.
