Malaysia’s move towards the planned implementation of a multi-lane fast flow (MLFF) barrier-free toll collection system is set to begin with the use of automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) for toll payment, with a pilot project to trial the system set to begin on the North-South expressway (NSE) from October.
The pilot is an initiative by highway concessionaire PLUS, with ANPR trials to be initially conducted on 35 lanes at 13 toll plazas between Hutan Kampung and Sungai Dua in northern Penang, before being expanded to the entire PLUS highway in the future.
Highway users wanting to trial ANPR for toll payment will need to download PLUS’ JustGo mobile app (available on Google Play and App Store), input their personal details and link a payment method, such as TnG e-wallet or a credit/debit card. There is no charge for registering.
In use, ANPR cameras installed at these toll plazas will capture vehicle number plates in real time and process payment via the app from the linked account as the vehicle passes through the gantry. According to PLUS, users can use any of the lanes at these ANPR-equipped toll plazas, which will still have existing barriers in place at booths.
The Just Go app will not just be for toll payments but is also capable of supporting additional features such facilities such as e-invoice display, toll transaction review and other mobility services in stages.
Works minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said the main goal of the ANPR open toll payment system is to offer a smoother, easier and more flexible travel experience for all highway users.
“I am confident that this system can help the industry prepare for the implementation of MLFF for the convenience of all highway users. I am also proud that this system was developed entirely by local highway industry experts without any financial implications for the government,” he said.
The ANPR project will provide the government a means to evaluate its reliability and accuracy in real-world traffic conditions, paving the way towards the introduction of MLFF, which is expected to come about sometime in 2027.
As indicated by deputy works minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan earlier this month, the MLFF system is now slated to be implemented through a direct business-to-business (B2B) model, which would mean no financial burden on the government. The initiative, part of a new direction set by the works ministry (KKR), will allow service provider companies to negotiate and deal directly with the 33 existing highway concession companies.
Ahmad also said the use of ANPR would also help address the issue of toll fare evasion upon the implementation of the MLFF system. “Anyone who fails to pay toll at MLFF lanes will definitely be tracked, as we will capture the licence plate numbers that pass through the gantries. Those who do not pay will certainly be identified and issued a notice. Possibly in the future, certain enforcement methods may be introduced, such as [prohibiting the renewal of] road tax,” he said.
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