Automatic number plate recognition system to roll out on PLUS Expressway in October

Works minister Alexander Nanta Linggi said the Hutan Kampung to Sungai Dua stretch of the highway in Penang would serve as the pilot project.

He said the use of ANPR was the first step towards implementing the multi-lane free flow (MLFF) toll system within the next two years, aimed at easing congestion at toll plazas, Bernama reported.

“This system enables users to pass through any existing lane without stopping, offering smoother and more flexible journeys.

“Today, I personally tried the system at a toll plaza and it proved to be significantly faster. No charges are imposed for registration, and users are free to choose any toll lane,” he told reporters at Persada PLUS here.

Nanta said the development of the system involved local experts in the highway industry and was fully carried out by the industry without any financial implications for the government.

He said, as a start, the system would be tested at 13 toll plazas involving 35 lanes before being expanded in stages across the entire PLUS network.

The ANPR system identifies vehicle registration numbers through cameras and allows toll payments to be made digitally and cashless. It also provides e-invoice displays, transaction checks, and various other mobility services through a single integrated digital platform.

Users only need to register online using their personal identification details, vehicle information and payment method.

“Once the registration number is read, the toll fare will be automatically deducted from the registered account. If the balance is insufficient, the payment will be claimed later from the vehicle owner,” he said.

Payments can also be made via the new JustGo application, which supports various methods including e-wallets, bank cards, and Touch ‘n Go.

Nanta stressed that there were no costs or charges imposed on the public to register or use the system, and they could still choose to use any existing toll lanes.