Skip toll payments and risk being tracked under new MLFF system, says works minister

Port Klang, October 29 — The Malaysian Works Minister, Alexander Nanta Linggi, warned that motorists who bypass the new Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) toll system risk being tracked. The MLFF system aims to curtail toll evasion, which could be achieved by identifying those who commit this offence. The Ministry of Works (KKR) and the Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) continuously monitor the efficiency of toll systems nationwide, developed by highway concession companies.

The MLFF system involves ANPR technology to reduce traffic congestion and identify individuals who evade paying tolls. This could lead to claims being made against offenders who escape detection. On October 23, it was reported that concessionaires of the Kuala Lumpur–Karak Expressway (KLK) and East Coast Expressway Phase 1 (LPT1) lose over RM20,000 annually due to toll evasion.

AFA Systems and Services Sdn Bhd reported about 3,000 toll evasion instances yearly, averaging eight daily. Alexander revealed that AI technology will be integrated into the MLFF system post-full implementation. Under the Federal Roads (Private Management) Act 1984, Section 8, offenders face a fine ranging from RM2,000 to RM5,000 or imprisonment for up to a year.

Alexander emphasized that toll evasion remains a concern despite involving a small number of cases. He is collaborating with enforcement agencies like the Road Transport Department (JPJ) and Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) to address the issue. The ministry is fully prepared for the Northeast Monsoon season, enhancing the Disaster Operations Room's capabilities to monitor potential disasters, particularly floods.

The CSR program with Westports focuses on improving safety and awareness within the port area, which sees around 80,000 daily vehicle movements. Measures include road studs, rumble strips, warning signs, proper lighting, road markings, and speed management. Additionally, the ministry is considering dedicated lanes for motorcyclists, who are the highest accident victims in the area.