Make CNY toll-free, remember pledge to rakyat – MIC

A few days ago, works minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said that the government would stop making highways toll-free for festive seasons and instead move towards a targeted approach to benefit only those who need it most.

Well, Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC) VP Datuk T. Murugiah has said that the Chinese community should receive toll exemptions for Chinese New Year (CNY), The Star reports.

“CNY is a major celebration in Malaysia with thousands of Chinese Malaysians travelling back to their hometowns to reunite with their families. These journeys often come with high costs, and toll fares are a significant financial burden for highway users.

“Waiving toll charges, even temporarily, can ease this burden and reflect the government’s commitment to the well-being of all Malaysians regardless of race,” he said, adding that it would ensure fairness and equal treatment.

T. Murugiah also reminded the government of its previous promise to abolish toll charges entirely if given the mandate to govern, and while the promise has not been fulfilled, he urged the government to at least grant toll exemptions during major festive seasons to honour the spirit of its commitment.

“It is disappointing to see the lack of action even during such significant celebrations,” he said. The cabinet is due to make a final decision today. Deputy works minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan said that one toll-free day costs between RM19 million and RM20 million in subsidies to compensate highway concessionaires.

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