This thought of introducing congestion pricing in KL comes as part of the Traffic Master Plan 2040 (PITKL 2040).
The Malaysian government has recently floated that it is to be evaluating the implementation of congestion charge for Kuala Lumpur, as part of its comprehensive Traffic Master Plan 2040 (PITKL 2040) to tackle the city’s growing traffic problems. This strategic initiative aims to reduce vehicle numbers, as well as encourage greater use of public transportation into the capital.
Dr. Zaliha Mustafa, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department for Federal Territories, confirmed that detailed studies are currently being conducted to assess the potential effectiveness of congestion charges. These evaluations are being jointly carried out by the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) and the Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation, before being presented to the Cabinet Committee on Road Traffic Congestion (JKMKJR) for thorough deliberation
“Congestion charges are among the measures outlined in the PITKL 2040 to address traffic congestion,” Dr. Zaliha stated during a parliamentary session. “The study examines various aspects, including the economic impact on road users and its effects on public transportation.”
The urgency of finding solutions to Kuala Lumpur’s traffic woes is highlighted by concerning economic data. According to a 2020 study conducted by Prasarana Malaysia Bhd, traffic congestion resulted in economic losses amounting to approximately RM20 billion annually.
“If we don’t address this issue effectively, these losses will continue to mount, affecting both businesses and individuals throughout the metropolitan area,” Dr. Zaliha emphasised.
Now for those who perhaps aren’t familiar with a congestion charge, it is in essence a fee that motorists will have to pay daily in order to drive into a specific zone. London is perhaps one of the most well-known cities to have implemented congestion charges, with drivers currently requiring to pay £15 (RM 85) for the privilege to drive into the heart of the capital.
New York City meanwhile has also recently implemented congestion pricing, in a bid to reduce its world’s highest automobile traffic congestion rate. During the first week of the congestion pricing program in January 2025, traffic decreased by 7.5% compared with the same week in 2024
The proposed congestion charge in Kuala Lumpur has been reiterated by the government to be just one component of a more comprehensive strategy in tackling the gridlock in the city. Dr. Zaliha stressed that implementing such charges must be accompanied by significant improvements to public transportation infrastructure, though concrete plans in that regard have yet to be revealed.
“We must create a complete ecosystem for public transport. If we don’t, people will continue to rely on private cars,” she explained. “The goal is not to burden people but to make Kuala Lumpur a smoother, more efficient city for everyone.”
