Engineering Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi pointed out that if the policy of providing toll-free periods for the people during festivals is stopped, the government is expected to save RM1.9 billion annually.
He stated that the decision to cancel the toll-free policy during the holidays is paving the way for the government to provide targeted subsidies to low-income groups.
“We are refining related policies to ensure that assistance reaches the groups that truly need help, especially the B40 group.”
Alexander made this statement to reporters today (23rd) after attending the launch of a new feature for the Touch 'n Go eWallet.
He said that the toll-free provision was a temporary measure introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2022 and is no longer being applied.
He mentioned that the Ministry of works is cooperating with the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Economy to implement more accurate subsidy measures to help low-income groups.
“We will adjust policies according to demand at any time. Current focus is on targeted subsidies, rather than comprehensive subsidies.”
He believes that subsidies should not benefit everyone indiscriminately, including high-income groups who do not need assistance.
On the other hand, regarding Multi-Lane Free Flow Technology (MLFF), Alexander stated that the government is refining the relevant systems and had started collecting data from stakeholders last December.