Jalaluddin Alias (BN-Jelebu) said the use of outdated technology to collect toll on our highways is the reason why there is so much congestion on the many highways spanning the country.

He also called out concessionaires for not upgrading their system despite holding the rights for many years.

“How long are we going to stick to using outdated technology at tollgates?,” the MP said.

“Why can’t we use sensors? It is being used in many developed countries. If the cars bypass the sensors (without payment), they could be fined. It makes sense.”

Jalaluddin made the suggestion after interjecting Tan Hong Pin (PH-Bakri). Tan had said that the current toll collection system contributed to congestion on highways while debating the supply bill.

Separately, Tan also welcomed Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s statement yesterday that the government will review Touch ‘n Go’s monopoly when it comes to toll payments over the system’s lack of significant improvement and development despite nearly two decades in operation.

He also called upon the public works ministry to provide updates on the multi-lane free-flow toll system that was proposed by the Malaysian Highway Authority to highway concessionaires.

Last year, then public works minister Fadillah Yusof said that highway concessionaires have been instructed to implement the multi-lane free- flow system by 2025 which would do away with toll booths and dedicated lanes by using gantries equipped with automatic number plate recognition.