KKR: MLFF Will Be Privately Funded Under B2B Model

The Works Ministry is moving forward with implementing the Multi-Lane Fast Flow (MLFF) toll collection system using a direct business-to-business (B2B) model. This decision follows the termination of its agreement with the original project proponent last year, presumably KJS-SEP Synergy (M) Sdn Bhd.

Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan told Parliament earlier today that the B2B model will not involve any financial outlay from the government.

He said private service providers will be allowed to negotiate directly with the country’s 33 highway concessionaires. This arrangement is aimed at ensuring the system is delivered efficiently without burdening public funds.

To support the rollout, a proof-of-concept (PoC) trial is currently underway at the Alam Impian toll plaza along the Kemuning–Shah Alam Expressway. The trial involves Touch ‘n Go and CIMB, with gantries and other supporting infrastructure already in place.

On the issue of toll evasion, Ahmad Maslan said the MLFF system will rely on radio-frequency identification (RFID) and automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) technology to identify vehicles. 

Those who fail to pay tolls will receive notices and stricter enforcement measures such as blocking road tax renewals could be introduced in the future with involvement from the Road Transport Department (JPJ).

Ahmad Maslan also responded to concerns raised by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) over a previously estimated cost of RM3.46 Billion for the MLFF system. He clarified that this figure is no longer relevant as the government will not be funding the project.

"The RM3.46 Billion cost will not materialise," he said, stressing that the new B2B model removes the need for any government expenditure. A two-year period has been set for private service providers to complete their negotiations with highway concessionaires.

In the meantime, the ministry is working on improving current RFID lanes and also open payment systems offering more flexibility in how toll payment is made.

Soirce: MalayMail