Finally, some news on Malaysia’s radio-frequency identification (RFID) system for paying toll fares. Originally slated to be implemented in January this year, the system will finally be trialled in a public pilot programme on September 3 ahead of a full-scale launch in January 2019, Touch ‘n Go announced today.
The trial is open to Klang Valley highway users who drive Class 1 vehicles (passenger cars, vans, 4x4s and pick-up trucks) with private registration. Those interested in joining the programme can register on the official Touch ‘n Go website. For now, there are 16 highways already equipped with the RFID system, the full list of which can be found in the FAQ below.
The company will waive the RFID fee during the trial period, but users will still be required to pay toll charges. Reloads can be made through the eWallet app (iOS here, Android here), which is necessary for users to join the pilot. Touch ‘n Go said that the RFID sticker will need to be installed on the car’s windscreen or headlamp at an authorised centre – a process that should take around 15 minutes.
It has also been confirmed that, as part of the RFID programme, sales of SmartTAG devices have been discontinued with immediate effect, with RFID set to eventually replace the SmartTAG system in the long run. Existing SmartTAG users will still be able to use their devices to pay toll charges until further notice. All SmartTAG purchases are final, non-refundable and cannot be swapped for an RFID sticker.
Looking to sell your car? Sell it with Carro.
AI-generated Summary ✨
Comments on the blog post mainly express skepticism and frustration about the RFID system, viewing it as an unnecessary burden that could lead to higher costs and inconvenience, especially for multiple car owners who would need separate RFID tags and e-wallets. Many highlight concerns about possible extra fees, system reliability issues, and whether the RFID initiative will truly ease congestion or just generate revenue. Several commenters mention the ongoing delay in toll abolishment promises and compare the system to existing technology in other countries like Singapore. Additionally, some feel the system could have been more efficiently integrated with existing vehicle registration methods. Overall, sentiments lean toward distrust of the RFID rollout and disappointment over unfulfilled promises.