Works Ministry confirms TnG and Smart Tag to phase out as early as end-2023, migrating to RFID
CY Foong · Dec 21, 2021 10:30 AM
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With all the hullabaloo surrounding the decision by the Ministry of Works (KKR) to phase out Touch ‘n Go (TnG) and SmartTag lanes along the North-South Highway, it seems that the government is adamant that the rakyat will embrace the RFID system.
At the Dewan Negara on Monday, 20-Dec, KKR is targeting 60% usage of the RFID technology for toll payments by end of 2022. Meanwhile, Deputy Works Minister Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup said the use of TnG and SmartTag cards may be stopped by the end of 2023.
Replying to a question asked by Senator Aknan Ehtook on the ministry’s plans on the use of RFID technology, Arthur said, “We understand the concerns voiced by highway users and would like to clarify that for now, TnG and SmartTag card lanes remain operational on all highways and they will only be phased out, taking into account RFID usage rates and RFID lane availability,”
He also added that the cost of RFID is much lower than TnG and SmartTag and it does not require maintenance costs such as replacing the battery as needed for SmartTag and is easy to top up online.
“At the RFID lane, we can clear 1,000 vehicles per hour, but TnG only 550 vehicles per hour, meaning this technology (RFID) can indeed help reduce congestion at toll plazas.
“The government will now give a discount of RM10 if we buy (the) RFID (device) through electronic wallets (e-wallets), At the same time we are still studying some methods to provide additional incentives such as new car buyers having RFID already installed,” Arthur said.
This was in response to another supplementary question from Senator Seruandi Saad who wanted to know whether the government intends to provide free installation or subsidies to consumers who switch from TnG and SmartTag to RFID to reduce their cost burden.
Traded advertising for a career that fits his passion for cars. Enjoys spotting cars during his free time and has a soft spot for Japanese Kei cars but drives a thirsty manual sedan.
