Govt Mulls Putting Streetlight Upkeep Under Concessionaires

The government is exploring a plan to make highway concessionaires responsible for maintaining streetlights on major roads, Dewan Rakyat was told today.

Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said the proposal is aimed at ensuring that road lighting is regularly checked and maintained, so any problems can be fixed promptly and efficiently. 

He noted that following suggestions from Members of Parliament, the ministry is considering incorporating road lighting into the standard duties of concessionaires, which would allow for more organised oversight and quicker repairs.

He was replying to a supplementary question from Kamal Ashaari (PN-Kuala Krau), who asked about the ministry’s follow-up actions on complaints lodged through its mobile application.

Nanta also revealed that the ministry has requested RM324 million under the 2026 budget for road lighting and traffic signals. Perak is expected to receive the highest allocation at RM75.5 million, followed by Johor with RM45 million. 

The remaining allocations include Kedah at RM35.7 million, Kelantan RM33.85 million, Selangor RM32.5 million, Pahang RM26.8 million, Terengganu RM26.26 million, Negri Sembilan RM24 million, Melaka RM18.1 million and Perlis RM6.8 million.

“These funds will support both the installation and upkeep of streetlights and traffic signals, ensuring highways are better lit and safer for drivers,” he said.

Source: NST