In a tweet, Khairy said that northbound traffic was up 20.5%, while southbound traffic increased by 15.4%. Within the Klang Valley, traffic on the roads rose 9.7%, he said.

“We will continuously monitor disease patterns & mobility data to predict potential outbreaks,” he said.

“Highway concessionaires will also be reminded to ensure high-risk settings like suraus (at rest stops) are well-ventilated and well marked for physical distancing in anticipation of the weekend exodus on our highways.”

On Sunday, Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob announced the easing of interstate travel restrictions for the fully vaccinated, as well as the lifting of restrictions for immunised Malaysians to travel overseas.

Both relaxations came into force yesterday. While fully vaccinated Malaysians can leave the country without seeking permission, they are still subject to quarantine requirements upon their return.