Maslan: Festive Toll Exemptions May Return; MIC Backs Chinese Community's Call

The decision to discontinue toll exemptions during festive seasons remains under review, with the possibility of revision, says Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan.

He stated that the final decision would be determined in the ongoing Cabinet meeting and any changes would be announced by the Works Minister by later today (Friday), ahead of Chinese New Year.

This follows from Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi’s recent announcement that toll exemptions during major festive seasons would end this year.

Ahmad Maslan noted that a single day of free tolls costs RM19 million to RM20 million in subsidies, with eight toll-free days annually requiring significant government spending. He clarified that the Work Ministers announcement reflects a Cabinet decision that was made last year.

Earlier today, MIC vice-president Datuk T. Murugiah has urged for toll exemptions to be given during Chinese New Year to ensure fairness for the Chinese community. He highlighted that festive travel imposes high costs, and waiving tolls would ease the burden while demonstrating the government’s commitment to all Malaysians.

Murugiah also reminded the government of its previous unfulfilled promise to abolish toll charges.