The Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) anticipates a record surge of 3.27 million vehicles this Chinese New Year, supported by a government-mandated 50% toll discount for Class 1 vehicles on February 14 and 15.
As the Year of the Horse approaches, millions of Malaysians are preparing for the annual balik kampung exodus. To ease the financial burden of festive travel, the MADANI Government has approved a 50% toll discount for all Class 1 private vehicles and Class 2 vehicles specifically on the Penang Bridge. This initiative, which involves an estimated RM19.5 million in compensation to highway operators, will be in effect from 12:01 AM on Saturday, February 14, until 11:59 PM on Sunday, February 15, 2026.
Record-Breaking Traffic Projections
The Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) expects total traffic volume to reach a peak of 3.27 million vehicles during the festive period. The North-South Expressway (PLUS) is projected to handle the lion’s share with 2.2 million vehicles, followed by the KL-Karak Highway (210,000) and the East Coast Expressway (130,000 across Phase 1 and 2). Also remember that there are more AWAS cameras around, so keep to the speed limit.
Traffic is expected to build significantly as early as Friday, February 13, for outbound travel from the Klang Valley. For the return journey to the capital, peak volumes are anticipated between February 20 and 22.
Strategic Measures and Smart Lanes
To manage this unprecedented surge, LLM has instructed all highway concessionaires to suspend non-emergency lane closures from February 12 to 23. Additionally, Smart Lanes will be activated at 32 critical locations nationwide to optimize road capacity.
Drivers are reminded that Smart Lanes temporarily open the emergency lane to light vehicles and are identified by green flashing lights and yellow notification signs. Users must adhere to on-site instructions and avoid using the emergency lane where Smart Lanes are not actively engaged.
Essential Travel Advice
While most highways are included in the 50% discount, motorists should note that border toll plazas are excluded. Full rates will still apply at the Sultan Iskandar Building (BSI) and the Tanjung Kupang (Linkedua) toll plazas.
Before heading out, ensure your Touch ‘n Go cards and e-Wallets have sufficient balance. Highway users are strongly encouraged to utilize the MyPLUS-TTA or TuJu Highway Navigation apps to plan their journeys according to recommended travel time advisories (TTA).
