Motorists across Malaysia will pay half price at toll plazas this weekend: the government is committing RM20.11 million to compensate highway operators for a 50 per cent discount running from 12.01am on Friday, November 6 to 11.59pm on Saturday, November 7 in conjunction with Deepavali, which falls on Sunday. Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi announced the two-day measure on Thursday, November 5.
The discount covers Class 1 private vehicles at all toll plazas nationwide, as well as Class 2 vehicles using the Penang Bridge. The window runs from midnight Friday to 11.59pm Saturday, giving travellers a full 48 hours of reduced rates on interstate expressways ahead of the festival.
RM20.11 million compensation for concessionaires
The government will bear the estimated cost as compensation to the highway concessionaires, subject to verification of traffic data after the holiday period. Putrajaya projects the two-day concession will need roughly RM20.11 million in federal payouts, pending post-holiday traffic volume checks, to offset the drop in toll revenue over the 48-hour window. The provision of this toll discount is estimated to involve RM20.11 million in compensation payments to the highway concessionaires concerned, which will be borne by the government, subject to verification of traffic data,
he said. Nanta said the payment is designed to ease travel expenses for Malaysians heading home for the festival.
This initiative is aimed at reducing travel costs for Malaysians returning to their hometowns or visiting family during the festive period,
he said in a statement, adding that it also reflects the spirit of the celebration through family ties and togetherness.
He framed the decision within the administration’s wider welfare agenda: This decision reflects the ongoing concern and commitment of the Madani government in preserving the welfare and well-being of the people regardless of race, religion and belief, while also strengthening the spirit of unity and harmony among Malaysia’s multi-ethnic society.
Works Ministry coordinates the rollout
The Works Ministry (KKR), through the Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM), will coordinate implementation with the relevant concessionaires to ensure eligible motorists benefit at automated lanes. Nanta advised highway users to plan journeys early to avoid peak congestion, keep sufficient balance on Touch ‘n Go cards or e-wallets, observe speed limits, maintain safe distances and take adequate breaks to prevent fatigue.
Drivers are also encouraged to monitor real-time traffic conditions and incident updates through LLM’s official channels to plan journeys more effectively. Cooperation from all road users in practising responsible driving is essential to ensuring smooth, safe and comfortable journeys throughout the festive season,
he said. Deepavali falls on Sunday.
