Touch ‘n Go eWallet’s new SOS Balance feature was launched less than a month ago, and while it’s still early days, it’s clear there has already been a substantial impact on its users. As a refresher, SOS Balance delays toll payments for 24 hours (up to a maximum of RM80) if there is insufficient balance, preventing drivers from getting stuck at toll plazas due to baki kurang – a function even we have requested.
eWallet operator TNG Digital was keen to answer some of our questions regarding the system such as its impact and efficacy, having already obtained some preliminary usage data. In an email response, the company said that while it doesn’t have any data on how many failed toll transactions were previously caused by insufficient balance, it did find that as of February 10, SOS Balance assisted in over 700,000 transactions since its launch on January 20.
“This feature helped [users] to avoid the frustration of being stuck at toll booths, ensuring smoother journeys – especially during the peak season of traveling to hometowns for Chinese New Year,” it said, adding that the data showed SOS Balance’s “impact in improving transaction efficiency at toll plazas, ultimately contributing to smoother traffic flow.”
It should be noted that the feature is currently only available for eligible users who have consistently demonstrated they have cleared all outstanding payments promptly, frequently reload their eWallet and actively use their eWallet for transactions.
Responding to our question on whether all users will eventually be eligible, TNG Digital said the feature is only “designed for loyal and active TNG eWallet users” but added that eligibility will be determined based on user engagement. In other words, those currently ineligible can still become eligible – they just need to use their eWallet more.
“Currently, approximately 70% of TNG eWallet toll users are eligible to benefit from SOS Balance,” the company said. “To increase [their] chances of becoming eligible, users should consistently demonstrate active eWallet usage. This includes regularly adding funds to the eWallet, making frequent transactions and promptly clearing any outstanding payments.”
The firm also said it was pleased with users’ promptness in paying their outstanding toll payments, praising Malaysian’ “integrity and reliability” in using SOS Balance responsibly, rather than as a way to get “free toll”. “Overall, the payback ratio for users settling their outstanding amount from SOS Balance has been high, which is in line with our original expectations,” it said.
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Should not help them!
Why is this a problem if PH had fulfill their promise above?
Yes correct about helping, but if authority wanna collect money, shudnt trouble the customer/road user by putting tollbooth barrier and causing kilometers of congestions. Just take my money and pls expedite the MLFF!!
This mean 700,000 motorist don’t even bother to make sure their credit is adequate! A blatant tidak apa attitude.
Next,interest kick off for every SOS. I scratch your back you scratch mine.
Is it reaaaaaaaaally that hard to check your card balance once in a while? This kind of crutch will only promote laziness and procrastination
Imagine collecting 50c for each time they use the SOS service. TnG would have easily made 350k by now. That will teach those ‘tidak apa attitude’ motorist to be more aware of their remaining TnG credit balance.
Got 700k idiots on the road… amazing
Whilst I agree that drivers should know their balance, this is my experience:
It’s always the RFID having issues with my balance.
There was times when I reloaded into my eWallet, but when I go through the toll, baki kurang. Checked my eWallet on the spot, more than sufficient to pass the toll.