How to avoid getting stuck at traffic during the ASEAN Summit in KL (May 23 to 28)

The 43rd ASEAN Summit is set to take place in Kuala Lumpur from May 23 to 28, 2025, bringing together leaders from across Southeast Asia. While this prestigious event highlights Malaysia's important role in the region, it also means one thing for local motorists: potential traffic nightmares.

If you're planning to navigate KL during this period, you'll need a solid strategy to avoid spending hours stuck in gridlock. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the city efficiently during the summit while providing valuable tips for Malaysian drivers.

Understanding the Impact of the ASEAN Summit on KL Traffic

The ASEAN Summit will primarily affect these key areas in Kuala Lumpur:

• Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) - Main venue for summit activities
• Major hotels in the city center - Accommodating international delegates
• Main routes connecting to KLIA and KLIA2 - For diplomatic arrivals and departures
• Connecting highways between these locations - Subject to periodic closures

Traffic disruptions will likely include:

• Road closures with minimal advance notice
• VIP motorcycle escorts causing temporary traffic halts
• Enhanced security checkpoints around key venues
• Detours that may change daily based on summit activities

5 Smart Strategies to Avoid Summit Traffic Jams

1. Use Real-Time Traffic Monitoring with the Motorist App

The most effective way to navigate KL during the summit is with real-time traffic information. The Motorist App offers live updates on road closures, traffic conditions, and alternative routes specifically optimized for the ASEAN Summit period.

Pro Tip: The Motorist App provides alerts about unexpected road closures before they appear on other navigation platforms, giving you a crucial time advantage to change routes.

2. Plan Alternative Transportation Options

Consider these alternatives to driving your own vehicle:

• Public transportation: The LRT, MRT, and KTM systems will operate extended hours during the summit.
• Ride-sharing services: May have higher surge pricing but can still be more convenient than driving.
• Park-and-ride facilities: Leave your car outside the affected zones and use public transport for the final leg.

3. Adjust Your Work Schedule

If possible, consider:

• Working from home during summit days
• Adjusting work hours to avoid peak traffic (before 7 AM or after 8 PM)
• Taking leave during the most impacted days (May 24-26)

4. Know the VIP Routes and Avoid Them

Major routes likely to experience the most disruption include:

• Jalan Tun Razak
• Jalan Sultan Ismail
• Jalan Ampang
• DUKE Highway
• SPRINT Highway
• MEX Highway (especially for airport routes)

These routes connect major hotels to the summit venue and airports, making them prime candidates for sudden closures during VIP movements.

5. Consider Selling Your Underused Car

If you've been contemplating whether to sell your car in Malaysia, the summit period might be the perfect time to consider it. With traffic conditions becoming increasingly challenging, many Malaysians are questioning if maintaining multiple vehicles is worth the hassle.

The Motorist App makes it simple to sell your used car through their online platform, potentially saving you from summit traffic altogether while putting extra cash in your pocket.

Essential Traffic Information Resources

Stay updated with these official channels:

• Motorist Malaysia - Real-time traffic updates and personalized route suggestions
• PDRM Traffic Social Media - Official police announcements about road closures
• Malaysia Traffic Camera Network - Live views of major intersections
• LLM Highway Updates - Information on tolled routes

Beyond the Summit: Long-Term Traffic Solutions for KL Motorists

Consider Your Vehicle Options

With KL traffic worsening yearly, many drivers are reassessing their vehicle situation:

• Sell car online services like Motorist provide convenient alternatives to traditional dealerships
• Downsizing to a more fuel-efficient vehicle can reduce your Malaysia petrol price expenses
• For rarely-used second cars, scrap car services offered through the Motorist platform can provide fair compensation

Protect Your Investment

During heavy traffic periods, the risk of minor accidents increases. Ensure you have:

• Updated insurance kereta coverage that includes bumper-to-bumper protection
• Comprehensive insurance Malaysia policies that cover traffic-related incidents

Download the Motorist App: Your Summit Traffic Solution

The most effective tool for navigating the ASEAN Summit traffic challenges is the Motorist App, offering:

• Real-time traffic updates specific to summit activities
• Alternative route suggestions based on current conditions
• Notifications about surprise road closures before they happen
• Integration with traffic camera Malaysia networks for visual confirmation
• Community-sourced traffic reports from other users

Download the Motorist App today and transform your summit driving experience from frustrating to manageable.

Conclusion

The ASEAN Summit represents both a proud moment for Malaysia and a significant challenge for KL motorists. By planning ahead, utilizing the right tools, and staying flexible, you can avoid the worst of the traffic disruptions.

Whether you choose to navigate the city differently, temporarily change your routine, or even sell your car Malaysia through services like Motorist, having a strategy will make all the difference during this busy diplomatic period.

Remember: download the Motorist App before May 23 to ensure you have the most up-to-date traffic information throughout the summit period.

Read More: ASEAN Summit kicks off in KL May 23 to 28, dry run this Wed and Thu; here are the roads to avoid

Download the Motorist App now. Designed by drivers for drivers, this all-in-one app lets you receive the latest traffic updates, gives you access to live traffic cameras, and helps you manage vehicle related matters.