Choice is the right road for MLFF system

NOT many may have noticed it, but a quiet race is taking place on Malaysia’s highways over the long-awaited multi-lane free flow (MLFF) system.

Put simply, the MLFF system is intended to allow motorists to pass through tolls points without slowing down or stopping to pay. This should mean smoother journeys, with less congestion at toll plazas. Eventually, it could lead to fully barrierless tolling, similar to what Singapore has long enjoyed.

The government has rightly stated that MLFF should be implemented by toll concessionaires, without imposing extra costs on the rakyat. This point must not be forgotten.

Two main approaches have emerged.

The first is JustGo, supported by a consortium of concessionaires including PLUS Malaysia. It has been trialled on highways such as the NSE (North-South Express-way), BKE (Butterworth-Kulim Expressway), SPDH (Seremban-Port Dickson Highway), and Linkedua (Second Link Express-way, or Lebuhraya Laluan Kedua Malaysia-Singapura), with plans for wider expansion. It uses automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) together with a mobile app.

JustGo says motorists will not need to buy an additional device or tag. It also promises lane freedom, meaning users can use any lane instead of being limited to dedicated RFID lanes.

The second is Titan Flow, essentially an enhanced version of Touch ’n Go’s existing RFID system. It combines RFID with ANPR and 3D LiDar (Light Detection and Ranging) technology. It is available on selected enhanced RFID lanes, with more planned by the end of 2026. While there may be no subscription charge, a new RFID tag normally costs about RM35.

Both approaches have their merits, and competition should be welcomed. The government’s approach of allowing consumers to choose is very sensible, I feel. Having both JustGo and Titan Flow gives motorists more flexibility, while making Malaysia’s future tolling system more resilient.

For motorists who already use RFID tags, it may make sense to stay with it. But for those who do not, they may opt for JustGo as there’s no additional device or upfront cost.

Of course, much will depend on which highways a person uses most often. What matters most is that all systems can work together smoothly, supported by clear rules and proper enforcement.

Any nationwide MLFF system should also remain accessible to all motorists. An upfront cost may appear modest to some, but it can still be an added burden for households already managing rising daily expenses.

The government’s cautious and inclusive approach to MLFF should therefore be commended. Choice, and avoiding extra costs for the rakyat, is the way to go.

SIVASUBRAMANIAM GANAPATHY

Sungai Buloh, Selangor