Deepavali 2026: 3.28 million vehicles expected daily

Planning to drive home for Deepavali 2026? The Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) expects approximately 3.28 million vehicles daily on major highways during the peak festive travel period, with the PLUS highway network alone projected to handle 2.24 million vehicles per day. Traffic is expected to increase from 5 November as Malaysians travel to their hometowns ahead of Deepavali on Sunday, 8 November 2026. Motorists are advised to plan their journeys early, check official traffic updates and prepare for possible congestion.

According to Bernama's report on 5 November 2026, the heaviest traffic is expected on routes heading towards the East Coast, northern and southern regions of Peninsular Malaysia.

Key takeaways

• Approximately 3.28 million vehicles are expected daily on major Malaysian highways during peak Deepavali travel days.
• PLUS highways are projected to record 2.24 million vehicles daily, around 17% above their normal daily traffic volume.
• A 50% toll discount applies to eligible vehicles on 6 and 7 November 2026, with specified exclusions.
• PLUS has announced Smart Lane activation at 32 selected locations to help manage congestion.
• Motorists should expect increased traffic towards the Klang Valley on 9 and 10 November.

Deepavali 2026 highway traffic forecast: What drivers should expect

Millions of Malaysians are expected to travel during the Deepavali celebration and the accompanying school holiday period, creating heavier-than-usual traffic on major expressways.

LLM director-general Ir Mohd Hadzmir Yusoff announced that approximately 3.28 million vehicles could use major highways nationwide each day during the peak travel period.

Separately, PLUS Malaysia Berhad expects up to 2.24 million vehicles daily on its highway network, compared with its usual average of approximately 1.92 million vehicles.

This represents an increase of about 17% in daily traffic on the PLUS network.

The forecast reflects expected traffic volumes rather than confirmed vehicle counts. Actual congestion will depend on departure times, weather conditions, incidents and traffic management measures.

Which highways will experience heavy traffic during Deepavali?

Several major expressways are expected to experience increased traffic as drivers travel between the Klang Valley and other regions of Peninsular Malaysia.

Based on LLM's projections reported by Bernama, the estimated daily vehicle volumes are:

These figures are network-wide daily projections and should not be interpreted as traffic counts at individual toll plazas or specific road sections.

Drivers travelling north towards Ipoh, Penang and Kedah, south towards Melaka and Johor, or east towards Pahang, Terengganu and Kelantan should allow additional travel time.

When will Deepavali 2026 highway traffic be heaviest?

Traffic is expected to increase from Thursday, 5 November 2026, ahead of Deepavali on Sunday, 8 November.

PLUS has also identified 9 and 10 November as dates when traffic heading back towards the Klang Valley is expected to rise as motorists return from festive and school holiday trips.

Important travel dates:

• 5 November: Traffic begins increasing as motorists depart for their hometowns.
• 6–7 November: Festive travel continues, with the government's toll discount in effect.
• 8 November: Deepavali celebration.
• 9–10 November: Increased return traffic towards the Klang Valley is expected.

These dates indicate expected travel patterns, not guaranteed congestion hours. Drivers should refer to official Travel Time Advisory schedules for recommended departure times.

Deepavali 2026 toll discount: How much can drivers save?

The government has announced an approximately 50% toll discount for eligible vehicles during the Deepavali travel period.

The discount is scheduled to run from 12.01am on Friday, 6 November, until 11.59pm on Saturday, 7 November 2026.

According to the announcement, the discount applies to Class 1 vehicles, with Class 2 vehicles covered on the Penang Bridge.

It applies across highways nationwide except at the Sultan Iskandar Building (BSI) Toll Plaza and the Tanjung Kupang Toll Plaza on the Malaysia-Singapore Second Link.

For example, a journey normally costing RM40 in eligible toll charges would cost approximately RM20 with a 50% discount. This is an illustrative calculation, not a quoted toll rate for a particular route.

Motorists should check the official announcement and their vehicle classification before travelling.

What is being done to reduce Deepavali highway congestion?

LLM and highway concessionaires have announced several measures to manage the expected increase in traffic.

Smart Lane activation

PLUS has announced the activation of Smart Lanes at 32 selected locations. These allow designated emergency-lane sections to be temporarily used for traffic movement when officially activated.

Drivers must follow road signs and traffic personnel's instructions. Emergency lanes outside designated active Smart Lane sections must not be used for ordinary driving.

Temporary suspension of maintenance work

Highway maintenance activities requiring lane closures will generally be suspended from 6 to 10 November 2026, except for emergency repairs.

Additional facilities at rest stops

Highway operators have been instructed to provide additional facilities at selected rest and service areas, including parking spaces and portable toilets, while maintaining adequate water and fuel supplies.

Traffic management at toll plazas

Additional traffic management measures are being introduced at busy toll plazas to help reduce bottlenecks during peak travel periods.

How to avoid heavy traffic when driving home for Deepavali

Although congestion may be unavoidable on popular routes, proper planning can help make your journey safer and more comfortable.

1. Check the recommended travel time before leaving

Use the MyPLUS Travel Time Advisory (MyPLUS-TTA) to identify recommended departure periods on the PLUS network. Drivers heading to the East Coast should also check the Travel Time Advisory for KLK and LPT1.

2. Consider travelling outside peak periods

Where practical, consider travelling during less busy periods recommended by highway operators. For the East Coast routes, AFA Prime has encouraged travel between midnight and 6am on the specified advisory dates, but only choose overnight driving if you are well rested and alert.

3. Check traffic conditions before entering the highway

Review current traffic reports, weather conditions and any reported accidents or closures. A route that normally takes three hours could require significantly more time during festive congestion.

4. Plan your rest stops

Rest and service areas may become crowded during peak travel periods. Identify alternative stopping points and avoid waiting until your fuel is nearly empty.

5. Maintain a safe following distance

Stop-and-go traffic increases the risk of rear-end collisions. Avoid sudden lane changes, keep a safe distance and stay focused on surrounding vehicles.

Essential car checks before your Deepavali balik kampung journey

Long-distance festive driving can place additional demands on your vehicle, particularly during prolonged congestion and wet weather.

Before leaving, inspect the following:

• Tyres: Check tyre pressure, tread condition and the spare tyre or puncture repair kit.
• Engine oil: Check the oil level and whether scheduled servicing is due.
• Coolant: Ensure the cooling system is in good condition to reduce the risk of overheating.
• Brakes: Pay attention to unusual noises, vibrations or reduced braking performance.
• Battery: Watch for slow engine cranking or other signs of a weak battery.
• Lights and wipers: Check headlights, brake lights, indicators and windscreen wipers.
• Fuel and toll payment: Ensure you have sufficient fuel and an appropriate, adequately funded toll payment method.

If your vehicle has an unresolved mechanical problem, have it inspected by a qualified mechanic before attempting a long-distance journey.

Where can drivers check live highway traffic updates?

Drivers can obtain traffic information and travel advisories from the following official sources:

• PLUS Malaysia: Visit PLUS Malaysia for highway information and travel advisories.
• Malaysian Highway Authority: Visit LLM for highway traffic information and available traffic camera images.
• PLUS traffic updates: Follow the official X account @plustrafik.
• LLM traffic updates: Follow the official X account @llminfotrafik.
• PLUSLine: Call 1-800-88-0000 for highway emergency assistance.
• LLM traffic information: Call 1-800-88-7752.

Always check the latest official information before departure, as traffic conditions and Smart Lane operations can change.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many vehicles are expected on Malaysian highways during Deepavali 2026?

LLM expects approximately 3.28 million vehicles daily on major highways nationwide during the peak Deepavali 2026 travel period.

2. How many vehicles will use PLUS highways during Deepavali?

PLUS Malaysia Berhad expects up to 2.24 million vehicles daily on its highway network during peak festive travel days, approximately 17% above normal daily traffic.

3. When is Deepavali 2026 in Malaysia?

Deepavali falls on Sunday, 8 November 2026, with increased highway traffic expected before and after the celebration.

4. Is there a toll discount for Deepavali 2026?

Yes. An approximately 50% toll discount applies to eligible vehicles from 12.01am on 6 November until 11.59pm on 7 November 2026, subject to the announced exclusions.

5. Which highways are expected to be busy during Deepavali?

The PLUS highway network, DUKE, Kuala Lumpur-Karak Expressway, WCE, LATAR, LEKAS and East Coast Expressways are among the major routes expecting increased traffic.

6. When will return traffic to Kuala Lumpur be heavy?

PLUS expects traffic heading towards the Klang Valley to increase on 9 and 10 November 2026 as motorists return from their festive and school holiday trips.

7. Can drivers use Smart Lanes during Deepavali?

Yes, but only at designated locations when Smart Lanes are officially activated. PLUS has announced activation at 32 selected locations for the festive period.

8. How can I check PLUS highway traffic before travelling?

Check MyPLUS-TTA, official PLUS traffic updates and the LLM website for travel advisories and current highway conditions.

9. What should I check on my car before balik kampung?

Inspect your tyres, brakes, battery, engine oil, coolant, lights and wipers. Ensure the vehicle is roadworthy before beginning a long-distance journey.

10. What should I do if my car breaks down on the PLUS highway?

Move to a safe location if possible, switch on your hazard lights and contact PLUSLine at 1-800-88-0000. Avoid standing near moving traffic and follow the highway operator's safety instructions.

Conclusion: Plan ahead for a safer Deepavali journey

With 3.28 million vehicles expected daily on major Malaysian highways during the peak Deepavali 2026 travel period, early preparation is especially important.

Check the official travel advisories, allow extra time, maintain your vehicle and drive patiently. Whether you are heading north, south or towards the East Coast, reaching your destination safely matters more than arriving quickly.

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