The Centre for Governance and Political Studies (Cent-GPS) referred to a new study which found that 87.3% of Malaysians working in the central business district of Kuala Lumpur drive alone to work.

Just under 12% travel with one passenger while only 0.9% travel with two.

The study was conducted from Oct 23 to 25 at various locations in the Klang Valley, with sample drivers surveyed specifically during morning rush hour.

A total of 4,689 drivers were studied in Ampang (988), Seri Kembangan (1,098), Sungai Buloh (1,002) and Petaling Jaya (1,601).

Cent-GPS said travel costs for drivers were “fairly affordable” which meant there was not a significant enough incentive for people to carpool or consider using public transportation.

It said many drivers preferred to drive alone for their own comfort while others shunned public transportation as it was difficult or would cost them the same as parking at their workplace.

“They would rather spend the morning drive alone to gather their thoughts, listen to their favourite podcasts or even favourite music.

“They would prefer to do this without entertaining a colleague passenger,” it said. “The cost of fuel and sitting through traffic is just not as big as the cost of having to sit and listen to your colleague complain about the boss.”

In a statement, it urged Putrajaya to change its view on tolls, adding that this would not be a “back-stepping function” for the nation.

“Tolls need to be seen as a function in a developing country that can begin to regulate and reduce the number of cars on the road.

“As we head into a decade where climate change will determine our livelihoods, these measures, albeit painful and unpopular, need to be taken for the greater good and for the cleanliness of our children’s future.”