KUALA LUMPUR: Some 13 highway concessionaires have yet to agree on the implementation of the multi-lane free-flow (MLFF) toll payment systems, the Dewan Rakyat was told Monday (Nov 25).
Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan (pic) said 20 concessionaires are in negotiations for the MLFF implementation, with the government set to deliver a decision on it by Dec 16.
"Presently, we have 33 toll concessions that are scheduled to transition to the MLFF system. However, not all concessionaires are on board. We are still in negotiations with 20 concessionaires, while 13 have yet to agree," he said in the Dewan Rakyat on Monday.
He also mentioned concerns over the possible risk of toll evasion cases under the MLFF.
"The current evasion rate stands at only 0.01%, largely due to those violating the rules or tailgating to dodge payment.
"If we introduce a toll system without toll booths, the number of those who evade payment could increase," he cautioned.
"This will also necessitate an amendment to the relevant act. The question is, who wants to pay?
"These are the ones who are trying to dodge this toll.” he said adding that If the government doesn't get all 33 to agree, then will make another proposal.
He was responding to a question from Suhaizan Kayat (PH-Pulai) regarding the established timeline for the Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID) tolls to function optimally, and the feasibility of discontinuation if it fails to perform.
Ahmad Maslan said that technical problems are a significant contributing factor to the congestion in RFID toll lanes.
Several issues have been identified encompassing technical and operational aspects, and the ministry, in collaboration with the Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) and the highway concessionaires, is working to ensure a high level of efficiency in implementing the toll collection system using RFID permits.
Besides RFID, he mentioned that drivers have other options, such as the Open Toll Payment System, which is also being implemented using credit cards and debit cards.
"The second factor is the wallet balance and so forth. This is a human problem that causes that."
At present, 580 out of the 2,348 toll lanes, or 24%, utilise RFID technology.
"Our priority is to continue enhancing the RFID system because occasionally the RFID tag gets damaged and needs to be repaired. Unlike smart tags that can be transferred to another car, RFID tags are specific to one vehicle," he added.
