The Pakatan Harapan government’s promise of abolishing toll collection will be carried out, though the people will have to be patient for it, works minister Baru Bian told The Star. “We are trying hard to fulfil promises in the GE14 manifesto. What we have promised, we will have to do it,” he said.
The works minister said that there are many things that need to be considered before toll collection can be abolished. “We cannot rush into things,” he added, saying that the recently elected ruling party will do things in a proper manner, when pointed out that the 100-day mark is approaching. “What is important is our desire to fulfil the promises. I would like to ask the people to be patient,” Baru said.
The ruling government promised in its manifesto that it will gradually abolish tolls over the next five years, and should the government take over all toll operators’ debt obligations, it will need to pay over RM55 billion, excluding compensation. In a separate report, finance minister Lim Guan Eng was quoted as saying the promise to abolish tolls will be looked at once the country’s financial situation improves.
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AI-generated Summary ✨
Comments express mixed reactions to the toll abolition promise, with some supporting a reduction or gradual removal, citing concerns over road maintenance and fairness. Many critics accuse the government of broken promises, comparing current actions unfavorably to previous administrations, and highlight disappointment over unmet pledges like car price reductions and the abolition timeline. There is skepticism about the government's financial situation and trustworthiness, with some suggesting that tolls should only be reduced rather than fully abolished due to maintenance costs. Others acknowledge the need for patience, understanding that some commitments may take time to implement. Overall, sentiments range from hopeful support for toll reductions to frustration and distrust regarding the government’s true intentions and adherence to promises.