In a move that has taken Malaysian commuters by surprise, Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTM) has recently rolled out a new payment feature for its commuters that involves a RM30 temporary holding fee, known as Pre-Authorized, for debit card users at KTM Komuter service stations.
This development is a significant shift in KTM’s payment system, aimed at enhancing the efficiency of transactions.
When a commuter uses a debit card at the Automatic Control Gates (ACG), the RM30 Pre-Authorized amount is held temporarily.
This process is dependent on the confirmation received from the bank that issued the MyDebit card.
Balance returns within 1-3 days
KTM assures that this withheld balance will be credited back to the user’s account within 1 to 3 days, subject to the policies of the respective issuing bank.
However, a critical question posed by commuters was how multiple entries and exits in a day would affect this pre-authorization charge.
KTM clarified that the RM30 Pre-Authorized amount could be applied more than once daily if the remaining pre-authorized balance falls below RM10.
Starting from November 11, 2023, commuters can use their debit cards at all KTM Komuter stations in the Klang Valley and Northern region.
Netizens’ discussion
Some were shocked to be charged RM30, which will only be returned in 1-3 days, not within 24 hours.
While others think it makes sense, comparing it to petrol stations’ practices, some suggest using alternative methods like TnG cards to avoid the RM30 deduction.
According to KTM, the debit card can be utilized at various points within the stations, including Automatic Control Gates, ticket counters for printed ticket payments (QR code), and Ticket Vending Machines (TVM).
The debit card used must be a MyDebit card issued by a local bank, and its paywave function should be activated prior to usage at the ACG.
