The government is exploring the possibility of introducing congestion fees to reduce the number of vehicles entering the city, said Federal Territories Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa.
She stated that the initiative is part of the Kuala Lumpur Traffic Master Plan 2040, aimed at addressing severe traffic congestion during peak hours.
It is understood that the congestion charge is one of the strategies being considered to manage traffic.
“We are carefully studying how it will impact road users and the public transport system,” she told the Dewan Rakyat.
Study being conducted
A feasibility study is currently being conducted by the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research and the Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation.
It aims to assess the effectiveness of the congestion charge in reducing the number of vehicles on the road while also improving the public transportation system in Kuala Lumpur,” she said.
The study covers various aspects, including the economic impact on users and the effects on public transportation connectivity.
The findings of this study will be presented to the Cabinet Committee on Road Congestion for further consideration before any final decision is made.
However, in addressing the reality of congestion in Kuala Lumpur, particularly in older areas, the provision of a more seamless ecosystem must be established to encourage the public to use public transport,” she added.
Zaliha highlighted that traffic congestion costs the economy RM20 billion annually, emphasizing the need to enhance the public transport system.
“We must create a complete ecosystem for public transport. If we don’t, people will continue to rely on private cars. The goal is not to burden people but to make Kuala Lumpur a smoother, more efficient city for everyone.”
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