SHAH ALAM: The government has allocated RM20mil to upgrade the motorcycle lane along the Federal Highway (FT002), with the project expected to improve safety and comfort for some 35,000 motorcyclists who use the route daily.
Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said the upgrading project began in 2025 and is scheduled for completion in August this year.
He said concerns had been raised over motorcyclists entering the main highway lanes due to the heavy usage of the dedicated motorcycle route, increasing the risk of accidents.
“The motorcycle lane has exceeded its usage capacity and this has become one of the reasons for the upgrading works,” he told reporters after visiting the project site on Thursday (May 21).
Nanta said the route, which was built in the 1970s, is among the oldest and longest motorcycle lanes in the country and has long faced recurring flood issues, particularly during the monsoon season.
“At present, our focus is on drainage and drain upgrading works because there are several black spots that are frequently hit by floods during the monsoon season,” he said.
Earlier, Nanta rode a red Yamaha Lagenda motorcycle for about five kilometres to inspect the progress of the project.
He said RM6mil of the allocation had been earmarked for the installation of Integrated Solar LED (ISLED) street lights to improve visibility and safety at night.
“We hope the solar lights will brighten up the motorcycle lane and provide greater comfort for users,” he said.
Nanta added that the project has recorded more than 40% progress so far.
The upgrading works include resurfacing roads, repairing tunnels, replacing road barriers, fixing bridge railings, trimming trees and installing warning and directional signboards. Shelters for motorcyclists are also being constructed at suitable locations along the route.
Nanta said the government hoped the improvements would encourage more riders to use the dedicated motorcycle lane instead of entering the main highway.
“We hope this will help reduce accidents and fatalities involving motorcyclists,” he said, adding that several other motorcycle lanes in urban areas had also been identified for future upgrading works.
