The public works ministry is considering to include e-Wallets to the upcoming implementation of the open payment system (OPS) for tolled highways. This was revealed by its minister, Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, yesterday during an interview on RTM’s Naratif Khas programme.
For its initial run, the OPS will be able to accept transactions through debit card, Visa or Mastercard. This aims to help provide road users with more flexible payment options for tolls as well as the future implementation of the Multi-Lane Fast Flow (MLFF) system. Its introduction will also finally strip Touch ‘n Go of its exclusivity as the sole payment service operator for Malaysian highways.
However, Nanta notes that the inclusion of e-Wallets won’t be immediate, as it would only be considered after the OPS is fully introduced. Its delayed addition is expected, as studies on how the approach can be integrated to MLFF is needed in order to ensure a fault-free experience for road users.
Meanwhile, the works minister stated during the interview that he is hoping to get an earlier agreement with highway concessionaires so that the MLFF can be implemented earlier. The system itself is initially expected to be implemented in 2025, but Nanta is aiming to have it up and running by late next year.
“Various other related matters need to be refined because it involves many concession companies as well as legislation, regulation, preparation to develop the system and the technology involved,” he said. On that note, it was previously revealed by the deputy public works minister Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad in May that the government is in the midst of fine-tuning the proposed implementation of the MLFF in order to ensure that the OPS will function accordingly upon introduction.
For now, two highways have been selected to test the system’s proof of concept. These include the Duta-Ulu Kelang Expressway (DUKE) and the Sungai Besi Highway, which are scheduled to begin trials by September and October respectively within this year.
(Source: Bernama)
