The open payment toll collection system using automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) technology for highways is currently at the request for proposal (RFP) stage, says works minister Alexander Nanta Linggi.
The ANPR system identifies vehicle registration numbers through cameras and allows toll payments to be made digitally and cashless, easing congestion at toll plazas.
Bernama reported Nanta as saying the works ministry was calling on all interested parties to submit proposals for the implementation of the barrier-free toll system.
This forms part of the strategic measures for a more efficient and effective multi-lane free flow (MLFF) system over the next two years.
“We also apply the business-to-business method. We are still open to proposals from interested parties.”
Nanta said the barrier-free toll system implementation is expected to be finalised next year.
“We do not want to rush and need to pay close attention to details, given the major implications for various parties,” he said after visiting a slope repair project on a section of the road along Jalan Balik Pulau-Teluk Bahang in Penang today.
Under the new system, road users will only need to register online using their personal identification, vehicle details and preferred payment method.
Nanta said his ministry had conducted a comprehensive study of intelligent transport systems (ITS) in several developed countries.
“I have just returned from South Korea with representatives from the public works department. We have also visited other countries several times to observe how they implement ITS,” he said.
The ministry had earlier conducted a pilot project of the ANPR along the Hutan Kampung to Sungai Dua stretch of the highway in Penang.
It was reported that the system would be tested at 13 toll plazas, involving 35 lanes, before being expanded in stages across the entire PLUS highway network.
