Gerakan President Datuk Dr. Dominic Lau has urged the government to implement a more inclusive and targeted toll exemption policy during festive seasons.
‘The T20 group are taxpayers too’
He stated that such measures must accurately address the needs of affected communities, especially those from lower-income groups.
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Dr. Lau criticized what he described as rhetoric blaming wealthier individuals for benefiting from toll exemptions.
These individuals are also taxpayers. If the government wishes to exclude them from subsidies, they should identify and publish the criteria for the T15 group instead of stirring public opinion,” he said.
He also challenged Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to present data showing how many luxury vehicles benefited from toll exemptions in recent years.
If Anwar believes those driving large, expensive cars shouldn’t enjoy this benefit, then adjust toll fees based on engine capacity.
However, it was Anwar who initially promised to abolish tolls entirely, so why shift the blame now?”
Dr. Lau stressed that toll exemptions are meant to reduce the financial burden on citizens during festive periods.
Calls for the government to release timeline
He argued that targeting vehicle types alone overlooks families and individuals who rely on public transport to return home, suggesting that they are the ones most in need of government support.
To address congestion and encourage public transport use, Dr. Lau proposed toll exemptions for long-distance buses during festive periods.
He suggested the government collaborate with bus companies to offer discounted ticket prices on toll-free days, potentially reducing road traffic.
Additionally, Dr. Lau called for the government to release a clear timeline for abolishing toll fees, noting that promises made by the administration remain unfulfilled.
He pointed out that the recent extension of toll concession periods contradicts earlier pledges, adding that any drastic progress within the next two years appears unlikely.
Festive toll exemptions aren’t just about traffic congestion but also about family unity and fostering a compassionate society,” he said.
He emphasized the significance of such measures for all major celebrations, including Chinese New Year and other cultural festivities, where many Malaysians travel to reunite with loved ones.
In a separate post, Dr. Lau also concluded by highlighting a recent announcement of toll fee reductions, sarcastically stating, “If Gerakan had MPs, tolls would already be free!”
