The government is preparing to update several long-standing road laws before it can introduce the Multi-Lane Free Flow toll collection system across the country. This move marks the next step in modernising Malaysia’s tolling infrastructure, although the legal changes are not yet in force. Deputy Minister of Works Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan told the Dewan Rakyat that the amendments are expected to take place next year.

Key Laws That Must Be Amended

According to Ahmad, three Acts need to be revised to support the new system. These are the Highway Authority Malaysia (Incorporation) Act 1980, the Road Transport Act 1987 and the Federal Roads Act 1959. The amendments will create the legal foundation for the Multi-Lane Free Flow system to operate nationwide, covering enforcement procedures, technology use and the overall management of electronic toll transactions.

The Ministry of Works is working towards completing these amendments before the system can be launched. Until the laws are officially updated and gazetted, MLFF cannot be implemented as the required legal powers are not yet in place.

How MLFF Aims To Improve Toll Payments

The Ministry intends to introduce the MLFF system to make toll payments faster and more seamless for drivers. With this technology, vehicles will be able to pass through toll points at normal driving speed without stopping or slowing down. Sensors and overhead gantries will automatically detect vehicles and process toll payments electronically.

This approach is expected to reduce congestion, shorten travel times and create a smoother experience for road users. The Ministry views MLFF as the next step in modernising Malaysia’s highway network in line with global practices.

Clarification On Project Costs And Funding Model

Members of the Public Accounts Committee had earlier raised concerns about the estimated RM3.46 billion cost of the MLFF project. Ahmad clarified in Parliament that the government will not incur direct financial costs because the project follows a business-to-business model between toll concessionaires and the system provider. This arrangement means implementation costs are managed within the concession structure rather than through federal funding.

He added that any concessionaire selected must ensure that the system is cost-effective, competitive and does not introduce additional charges for highway users. According to Ahmad, the priority is to improve convenience while reducing congestion at toll plazas.

What The Change Means For Malaysian Drivers

For Malaysians, the introduction of MLFF is expected to offer a more efficient and predictable driving experience once the system is fully implemented. Motorists will no longer need to slow down at toll plazas, and traffic flow on major highways is expected to improve. However, these benefits will only materialise after the legislative amendments are completed and the technology is deployed in phases.

In the meantime, drivers can expect the government to provide updates as the amendments progress through Parliament and as implementation timelines become clearer. MLFF represents a significant shift in how tolls are collected in Malaysia, and the legal changes announced in Parliament are the first step towards making the system a reality.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for the latest money tips and updates.