THE government has given an assurance that current highway concessionaires still hold the absolute right to collect tolls according to concession agreements in force.
In a Facebook post today, Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said he, along with a team from his ministry, was working to ensure smooth implementation of the multi-lane free-flow (MLFF) project so that it met expected initiatives.
He was reacting to media reports that the government had directly awarded the MLFF project for all highways to a private company.
It was reported that a total of 32 highway toll concessionaires were unhappy over the move.
“This initiative requires comprehensive support and cooperation not only from the ministry but also from the concessionaires and the top management of the unity government.
“Although the planning and initial approval processes started in 2021, as the current minister of works, I recognise the need for more research and improvement actions, especially those involving legislation to ensure that the MLFF can run smoothly and benefit the people,” he said.
Under the MLFF system, all exit and entry points on highways will be converted into barrier-free lanes to reduce congestion and ease traffic flow.
“I have taken note of MLFF-related issues as reported in the media.
“The Malaysian Highway Authority and the ministry is looking into all aspects involving the implementation of MLFF as planned by the previous government.
“There is no denying that the previous government had gotten approval in principle for the implementation of MLFF. However, this approval is only to make room for the negotiation process to be conducted between the parties involved in the implementation of this MLFF.
“At present, the highway concessionaires still hold the absolute right to collect tolls according to the concession agreements in force,” he added. - The Vibes, December 7, 2023.
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