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PLUS Anticipates Heavier Traffic Flow for Merdeka Holiday, Introduces Enhanced App Features for Travellers

PLUS Malaysia Berhad (PLUS) is preparing for a significant surge in highway traffic in conjunction with the 68th National Day celebrations, with projections of up to 2.2 million vehicles making their way across its network on 31 August and 1 September.

In anticipation of the increase, the highway operator has urged motorists to plan their journeys ahead of time to avoid congestion and ensure a more comfortable drive. To support this, PLUS has rolled out several enhancements to its MyPLUS-TTA feature within the PLUS mobile application, aimed at making route planning more seamless, even outside the typical festive travel periods.

Among the new functions is the ability for users to save frequently travelled routes under the ‘Favourite Routes’ section, allowing quicker access during busy periods. The app also now displays real-time alerts directly on the search results page, giving drivers immediate updates on traffic flow and conditions. A revised drop-down menu has replaced the previous scrolling method for route selection, providing a faster and more user-friendly experience.

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Over 1,000 High-Risk Road Areas Identified for Urgent Safety Upgrades

The Ministry of Public Works (KKR) has identified more than 1,000 localities across the country as high-risk areas, or “black spots”, requiring immediate infrastructure and road safety improvements.

According to Harian Metro, Minister Datuk Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi stated that the majority of these areas are located along federal roads and are characterised by sharp bends, insufficient lighting, and damaged road surfaces. He confirmed that the government is prioritising remedial works to address these hazards.

As part of ongoing measures to improve safety in accident-prone zones, 300 solar-powered street lights have recently been installed along the Gerik-Jeli East-West Highway (JRTB).

The minister explained that the installation process is being carried out in phases, beginning with locations that have a high incidence of accidents, particularly at night.

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Concerns Mount Over Tampering of Speed Limiters in Heavy Vehicles

Safety concerns surrounding heavy vehicles have resurfaced as industry insiders warn that speed limiters, though mandated in new commercial buses and lorries, can be bypassed by trained technicians. This vulnerability has prompted calls for a more comprehensive approach to vehicle safety.

According to NST, a technician from a local bus manufacturing firm stated that modern speed limiters are embedded within the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) of heavy vehicles and rely on sensor inputs to regulate speed. However, the technician revealed that former service centre mechanics may still possess the software required to alter or deactivate the system and could offer such services discreetly through private workshops.

Given this loophole, the technician stressed the critical role of global positioning systems (GPS). As a standard feature in newly registered vehicles under the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD), GPS units are typically integrated with the speed limiter system. Unlike limiters, GPS-linked systems can accurately log and monitor a vehicle’s speed and alert operators of any infractions, making tampering more detectable.

Industry figures have also drawn attention to the broader technological framework within heavy vehicles. Thayalan Subramaniam, General Manager of MAN Truck and Bus Malaysia, noted that their vehicles’ speed limiters are also embedded in the ECU and set in accordance with regulatory guidelines — 89km/h for lorries and 100km/h for buses. He assured that MAN uses advanced diagnostic tools with updated security patches to prevent unauthorised system modifications. Nevertheless, he acknowledged that tampering can only be detected during a formal vehicle inspection at authorised workshops.

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RM350 Million Allocated for Federal Road Maintenance in Peninsular Malaysia

The government has announced a substantial allocation of RM350 million for the maintenance of federal roads across Peninsular Malaysia this year, with the intention of boosting infrastructure reliability and ensuring timely upkeep of the nation’s road network.

According to Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan, the funds will be distributed between two key areas: RM275 million has been set aside for periodic pavement maintenance, while RM75 million will cover non-pavement-related works. A total of 563 maintenance projects are scheduled under this programme.

The selection of contractors for these maintenance tasks is being conducted through a draw system, targeting those classified within the G1 to G4 contractor grades. Ahmad explained that this approach is designed to promote transparency and provide equal opportunities to smaller-scale contractors, many of whom often face challenges in accessing government projects.

According to Bernama, he clarified that the draw mechanism is part of the Programme to Accelerate Road Maintenance by Utilising Contractors Grade G1 to G4, with the current phase covering the Central and Eastern Zones. Similar draws are taking place in other regions, including the Southern Zone from today until tomorrow, and the Northern Zone from 5 to 6 June.

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NIOSH Offers Targeted Training to Improve Safety Standards for Heavy Vehicle Drivers

The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has reaffirmed its commitment to improving road safety by offering specialised training for heavy vehicle drivers, according to Bernama. The training, delivered under the Safe and Defensive Driving Person (SDDP) module, is designed to equip drivers with the knowledge and skills required for safer and more responsible operation of large vehicles on Malaysian roads.

According to NIOSH vice-chairman G. Manivanan, the SDDP module was developed in collaboration with both industry experts and stakeholders, taking into account the specific challenges and demands faced by heavy vehicle drivers. The programme encompasses key components such as road legislation, vehicle maintenance, and road management practices, with a strong emphasis on accident prevention and heightened driver awareness.

The training has already been adopted by several companies operating fleets of buses and heavy vehicles. These organisations have begun using the module to enhance the competency and safety awareness of their workforce. NIOSH is now calling on other heavy vehicle operators—both in the public and private sectors—to adopt the SDDP training as a proactive measure to improve road safety.

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Government Approves New Funding Mechanism to Bolster Road Safety Initiatives

The Cabinet Committee on Road Safety and Congestion (JK-MKKJR) has approved a proposal to establish a dedicated funding mechanism aimed at enhancing road safety, according to Transport Minister Anthony Loke.

Speaking at a press conference following the committee meeting today, Loke revealed that the initiative will involve allocating 50 per cent of revenue collected through fines under the Automated Awareness Safety System (AWAS) to the Ministry of Transport (MOT). The funds will be used to implement key safety measures, including the installation of lighting at accident-prone areas along highways.

“One of the immediate actions we will take is installing lights in accident hotspots,” Loke said. “We hope this creates a more sustainable stream of funding so that we can introduce preventive measures to mitigate road accident risks.”

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Nearly 7,000 Police Officers to be Deployed for Ops Selamat 24

Nearly 7,000 police officers will be deployed for Ops Selamat 24, an operation focused on ensuring road safety during the upcoming Hari Raya festive season. Authorities will prioritise accident-prone areas along major highways, where an influx of vehicles is expected.

Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department director, Comm Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri, confirmed that 6,957 traffic personnel have been assigned to the operation, which will run from March 29 to April 3. Special attention will be given to 25 hotspots and 46 black spots identified along major highways. Additionally, 407 hotspots and 76 black spots have been located on federal and municipal roads nationwide, all of which will be closely monitored to enhance traffic safety.

An estimated 2.2 million vehicles are expected on highways throughout the festive period. In response, continuous surveillance will be carried out to provide assistance to motorists in cases of emergencies.

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Kelantan Braces for Two Million Vehicles During Hari Raya Aidilfitri

Kelantan is set to experience a massive influx of vehicles as an estimated two million cars are expected to enter the state during the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations, according to the Road Transport Department (RTD).

Kelantan RTD director Mohd Misuari Abdullah stated that the surge in traffic will primarily flow through three major entry points: Pasir Puteh, Gua Musang, and Jeli. Congestion is anticipated to begin on March 28 as travellers make their way home for the festivities.

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JPJ to Enforce Temporary Driving Ban on Goods Vehicles During Hari Raya Aidilfitri

The Road Transport Department (JPJ) will enforce a temporary driving ban on goods vehicles during the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri festive period to ensure smoother traffic flow and enhance road safety. The ban will be in effect on March 28 and 29, as well as April 5 and 6, coinciding with the anticipated increase in travel as Malaysians return to their hometowns.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke emphasised that the measure is necessary to accommodate the surge in private vehicle traffic while minimizing the risk of road accidents. He urged all goods vehicle owners and drivers to comply with the restriction, warning that violations could lead to penalties. Offenders may face an RM300 compound, while those prosecuted in court risk fines of up to RM2,000 or imprisonment for up to six months.

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SAIC Motor Malaysia Pledges Commitment to Road Safety in ASEAN

SAIC Motor Malaysia has reinforced its commitment to improving road safety across the ASEAN region, with a special focus on Malaysia. This pledge was made during a ceremony held in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport, reflecting SAIC’s dedication to advancing regional safety standards, aligning with Malaysia’s sustainable development goals (SDGs), and contributing to the well-being of communities.

“Safety is not just a priority—it is a shared responsibility. By working together, SAIC Motor Malaysia drives progress, enhances vehicle safety standards, and strengthens Malaysia’s position as a leader in road safety and sustainable mobility,” said Emory QiFeng, Managing Director of SAIC Motor Malaysia. This collaboration underscores the company’s role in improving vehicle safety standards to meet ASEAN NCAP and global benchmarks, fostering confidence in Malaysia’s automotive industry by attracting investments and promoting innovation in sustainable, eco-friendly mobility solutions.

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