“I urge the Pahang government to lift the short-sighted commercial vehicle ban and call for detailed discussions on various solutions to alleviate traffic congestion,” said Tanah Rata assemblyman Ho Chi Yang.

It was previously reported that the Pahang government applied to the federal government for the ban. It is understood that the ban is linked to traffic congestion in the area during peak travel periods.

On May 25, works minister Alexander Nanta Linggi said the ban was expected to be enforced this month.

“Implementing the commercial vehicle ban abruptly may end up in a lose-lose situation for the residents, farmers, logistics players, vegetable distributors, vendors, and Malaysian consumers who wish to purchase affordable and fresh vegetables every day,” said Ho in a statement.

He proposed several alternative short and long-term measures to alleviate traffic congestion in Cameron Highlands.

This includes instructing vegetable traders to park their vehicles elsewhere as they occupy 80 of the 188 available parking spaces.

He also suggested that local authorities and police help control the traffic flow.

If the authorities insist on banning commercial vehicles, Ho said it should limit the ban to vehicles carrying non-essential goods to avoid disrupting supply chains.

In the long term, he proposed the construction of more multi-storey parking lots and the introduction of a park-and-ride facility.

In February, Ho warned the ban on commercial vehicles could impact the supply of vegetables nationwide.