The government will implement a 50% toll discount on all major festive occasions this year, replacing its previous toll-free policy.

Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi explained that this approach would help reduce government expenditure on compensating highway concessionaires.

“In a year, eight days were allocated for toll-free travel, and now the same number of days will have a 50% discount instead. If it were 100% free, we would spend RM160mil. By halving it (to 50%), the payment to concessionaires amounts to RM80mil,” he said.

He noted that the decision to introduce the toll discount was approved at a previous Cabinet meeting in preparation for the Chinese New Year 2025 celebration.

“For Chinese New Year, a 50% discount was given, with the decision made considering that the people still need it (during festive seasons). Therefore, the Cabinet has decided to continue this throughout the year during festive seasons, including Aidilfitri and beyond,” he said.

He also clarified that the cost of subsidising the toll discount would be covered by government funds rather than by the highway operators.

Previously, Nanta had mentioned that the government was exploring a more targeted approach to support the public instead of providing toll-free travel during festive periods.

(Source: Bernama) 

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• Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi
• Festive Seasons
• Toll Exemptions
• Tolls