THE move to reduce the toll rate by 18% on several highways under PLUS Malaysia Berhad is the first in the country, despite the extension of the concession period.

Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng said the approach is to ensure the well-being of the people.

“This is the first time the toll concession period is extended and toll rate is reduced.

“The new government is doing this in staying true to its principles.

“We are taking measures that will benefit the people unlike previously when only the private companies will rake in the profits,” he told reporters after a ceremony at Bukit Gelugor Customs Quarters in Penang today.

Lim said the toll reduction is a different or new approach being adopted by the present government for the people to enjoy the economic benefits, adding that the reduction will be maintained until 2058.

“Previously when the government extended the concession (after PLUS concession expired in 2018 and was extended for another 20 years to 2038) the toll rate was never reduced… but this time when we (the current government) extend the concession period to 2058, the toll rate is reduced.”

When asked why the toll reduction do not apply to buses and trucks, Lim said further clarification on the matter will be made at a later date.

Last Thursday, the Prime Minister’s Office said the toll reduction would begin as early as February 1 and there would be no hikes until 2058.

The highways include the North-South Expressway, New Klang Valley Express, North-South Expressway Central Link, Malaysian Singapore Second Link, East Coast Highway Phase Two, Port-Dickson-Seremban Highway, Butterworth-Kulim Expressway and Penang Bridge. – Bernama, January 18, 2020.