PLUS Malaysia Bhd’s implementation of its first RFID toll system is seeing an upward trend among motorists using tolled highways.
PLUS Malaysia Bhd’s (PLUS) implementation of its first RFID (Radio-frequency identification) toll payment system on private passenger vehicles saw a 10% penetration as Kedahans and Penangites migrated to the contactless and cashless payment method.
RFID, which is sanctioned by Malaysia Highway Authority (MHA), is in line with the Government’s vision towards the MultiLane Free Flow (MLFF) for congestion-free travel.
About 10% of Penangites and Kedahans are using RFID, says Azman.
The system uses radio-frequency identification tags embedded on vehicles.
PLUS Malaysia managing director Datuk Azman Ismail said there was significant success as the penetration increased from 2.3% two weeks ago to 10% on Aug 5.
“It is encouraging to see the positive take-up of the RFID in a short period of 14 days.
“I am confident this will increase as more will see the multiple benefits of this payment solution.
“The most compelling reason to use RFID is that the technology itself propagates physical distancing compared to the existing use of cards.
People crowding at a Touch ‘n Go RFID fitment centre in Petaling Jaya, Selangor. —Filepic
“Once the RFID is linked to your e-wallet, it reduces the probability of being stuck in toll lanes due to insufficient balance.
“It also discards the need to physically reload, thus reduces the risk of transmission of the coronavirus.
“We are grateful for MHA’s endorsement of this project, ” he said in a statement on Wednesday.
He said the support by their highway regulators enabled PLUS to proceed with the first nine designated closed toll plazas.
They are Hutan Kampung, Alor Setar Utara, Alor Setar Selatan, Pendang, Gurun, Sungai Petani Utara, Sungai Petani Selatan, Bertam and Sungai Dua.
“This is a testament of the promise that the other remaining closed toll highways will be primed for RFID very soon.
“PLUS recognises that embracing the RFID technology will require a level of mindset shift.
“But, there are a number of easy steps for highway customers to follow that will support lifestyle changes in the new normal, ” he added.
The Touch ‘n Go RFID tag embedded on a vehicle.
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