KUALA LUMPUR: Discussions over the Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) project are ongoing, says Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi.
“As I mentioned before, it is still within the given time (frame) – until the end of 2024 – as stipulated under its permanent agreement.
“With this, they (stakeholders) are given the space to negotiate further with stakeholders, and they still have time to do so,” said the Works Minister after attending the 2024 mandate ceremony and the ministry’s monthly assembly here yesterday.
The Works Ministry announced on March 30 last year that it had allocated RM3.46bil for the implementation of the MLFF toll collection system by 2025 to reduce congestion on highways.
The project is said to be using automated number plate recognition (ANPR) and RFID technologies to allow a seamless tolling experience without any physical toll lanes or barriers.
On Jan 22, the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) agreed to initiate proceedings on the project and will summon representatives from the Works Ministry and the Malaysian Highways Authority (LLM) to explain the implementation of the MLFF system.In March last year, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stressed that the tender for the barrier-free gantries on all tolled highways will be carried out properly and transparently.
The Prime Minister denied the MLFF project would be awarded through a negotiated tender, in contrast with his administration’s preference for open tenders for all government projects.
On a separate matter, Nanta Linggi said the ministry will embark on a total of 233 projects this year, involving 38 new projects, 181 in-progress projects, and 14 maintenance projects.
He also pointed out that the Sarawak portion of the Pan Borneo Highway has reached 98.91% completion, while Phase 1A of the Sabah portion is 87% complete for the 15 ongoing work packages.
“Soon, the West Coast Expressway (WCE) that connects Banting, Selangor, and Taiping, Perak, is also set to be fully opened.
“WCE will serve as an alternative route for the North-South Expressway, especially during festive seasons.
“Each of these mega projects will contribute to the economic growth and development of our country,” he said.
