Malaysia toll fare hike could have reached 83 percent without postponement
Toll fares in Malaysia were set to rise by as much as 83 percent for private car users this year, according to Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi. Thankfully, the government has postponed the hike, sparing millions of Malaysian drivers from a major financial burden — at least for now.
This move impacts popular highways like KESAS, LDP, and the Sprint Expressway, all of which would have seen significantly higher charges starting September. So what does this mean for your wallet, and how can you prepare for future changes?
What Was the Toll Hike About?
According to Nanta, the government is postponing the toll rate hikes to reduce the rising cost of living for Malaysians. Had the hike gone through, drivers using major expressways would have had to pay up to 83 percent more — a drastic spike that could strain middle-income earners.
The hike was supposed to follow contractual agreements with highway concessionaires. However, the government is now looking at compensating these operators to maintain the current rates — a move that could cost the government millions in subsidies.
Which Highways Were Affected?
Some of the major highways that would have seen toll increases include:
Damansara–Puchong Expressway (LDP)
Kesas Expressway
Sprint Expressway
Smart Tunnel
DUKE Highway
If you frequently travel through these routes, use the Petrol Prices and Traffic Camera tools from the Motorist App to plan your journey more efficiently.
How This Affects Private Car Owners
An 83 percent hike would mean some drivers paying double their current toll fees, especially for daily commutes. For example, a current RM3 toll could jump to over RM5 — potentially costing hundreds more every month.
If you are feeling the pinch from rising car-related expenses, it might be time to Sell Your Car and switch to something more fuel-efficient or toll-friendly. Check your car's valuation before you decide.
Tips to Prepare for Future Toll Hikes
Use alternative roads when possible
Monitor upcoming government announcements
Consider switching to public transport or carpooling
Use the Motorist Loan Calculator to explore options if you plan to buy a new vehicle
Make sure you have the right Car Insurance for toll and road safety coverage
Cross-Border Drivers: Watch Toll Trends at Woodlands Too
If you’re a frequent traveller between Johor and Singapore, monitor the Woodlands Checkpoint for updates on cross-border toll rates and traffic.
Conclusion: What Should Drivers Do Now?
The postponement is temporary. If the toll fare increase returns, it could be sudden and steep. Be proactive:
Re-evaluate your car expenses
Monitor petrol and toll updates
Explore better financing options
Consider selling or upgrading your car
With the Motorist App, you can track petrol prices, get a car valuation, check traffic cameras, and even renew insurance — all in one place.
Stay ahead of toll fare hikes. Visit Motorist.my today to manage your car better. Download the Motorist App to sell your car, get insurance quotes, track traffic, and more.
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