A Roadmap To Congestion Pricing In Kuala Lumpur

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From Boo Jia Cher
In my previous letter, I critiqued transport minister Loke Siew Fook’s claim that Kuala Lumpur’s public transport system isn’t ready for congestion pricing.
The real issue is not the inadequacy of public transport, but the overwhelming number of cars on the road. While many Malaysians are accustomed to driving everywhere, ignoring the growing traffic congestion will only exacerbate the problem.
Congestion pricing will be an effective solution, if implemented fairly, equitably and with careful planning.
A phased approach to congestion pricing
Successful congestion pricing requires a gradual rollout. A sudden increase in charges could disrupt daily commutes and provoke backlash.
A more measured approach would be to start with a modest RM1 fee for entering the city centre, with incremental increases over time.
In the first three months, the fee could remain at RM1, rising to RM2 in the following months, then RM4 by the year-end, RM8 in the second year, and eventually peaking at RM16 in the third year.
This phased plan gives commuters and city infrastructure time to adjust.
Targeting high-traffic zones
Congestion pricing should be implemented in areas with severe traffic congestion and established public transport options—places where people regularly work, shop and eat.
Key hotspots like KLCC, Bukit Bintang, Masjid Jamek, Petaling Street, Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman and Brickfields already suffer from congestion, pollution, illegal parking and safety hazards for pedestrians, cyclists and bus users.
And these areas are well-served by the LRT, MRT, monorail and buses, and are walkable, meaning alternatives to driving are already available.
By focusing on these high-traffic zones, everyone benefits: public transport users, pedestrians, and cyclists, as well as drivers who genuinely need to be on the road, such as individuals with disabilities, families with elderly members, and emergency vehicles.
Making alternatives attractive
To make not driving into KL appealing, we need practical, convenient alternatives that don’t feel like a downgrade from driving. Many drivers are accustomed to car access, so moving away from car dependency requires significant improvements in public transport and infrastructure.
We must enhance first- and last-mile connectivity from train stations with better sidewalks, sheltered walkways, bike lanes and bike-sharing programmes. Too many of us encounter obstacles like missing sidewalks or uncovered manholes that hinder mobility.
Enforcing stricter penalties for illegal parking is also crucial. Cars and motorcycles blocking sidewalks, bike lanes and bus stops create barriers for non-drivers and must be aggressively addressed.
Expanding the RapidKL bus fleet will improve service frequency (with a maximum wait time of 15 minutes) and expand routes. Integrating on-demand vans alongside increased train frequency could also make public transport more appealing.
Strictly-enforced bus lanes and incentives for carpooling will help decrease the number of cars on the road, with immediate fines for drivers who violate these lanes. Employers can also contribute by providing public transport subsidies and offering flexible working hours to ease peak-hour congestion.
Revenue from congestion pricing should be reinvested into improving public transport and infrastructure. As congestion pricing gains traction, KL could also consider pedestrian-only zones to reduce traffic and enhance public spaces. A Bus Rapid Transit system with dedicated lanes could further improve bus reliability.
A more ambitious step could involve removing major highways like the Ampang-Kuala Lumpur Elevated Highway to free up space for green areas and sustainable transport.
Similar to Seoul’s Cheonggyecheon project, which transformed a highway into a pedestrian-friendly river park, KL could revitalise its Klang River, improving liveability, reducing pollution, enhancing flood mitigation, and easing traffic.
Ensuring fairness and equity
It’s vital that low-income commuters are not disproportionately impacted by congestion pricing. The system should temporarily include discounted rates for those who need them most, and free public transport passes for the poor, students and elderly.
Transitioning from a car-oriented to a transit-oriented development model is also essential. Land near public transport hubs should be designated for high-quality, affordable housing, with basic amenities and minimal or no parking.
This would reduce construction costs, make housing more affordable, and encourage non-driving lifestyles.
Public awareness campaigns are critical for garnering support. Residents need to understand the long-term benefits of reduced traffic, better air quality, and improved urban liveability.
Engaging the public through town halls and surveys will help refine the system and address concerns.
A cleaner, more efficient future
I recently spoke with a Grab driver who was exasperated by the standstill traffic in Bukit Bintang. He was exhausted and frustrated.
If even a driver who relies on his car for a living feels overwhelmed, we are facing an urgent crisis. KL’s traffic congestion is choking the city, and immediate action is needed.
We must prioritise sustainable transport and improve connectivity. A well-implemented congestion pricing system is crucial for reducing traffic, improving air quality, and creating a more efficient city.
The time to act is now—delays will only make the problem worse. KL can lead the way to a greener, more liveable future, but only if we act decisively. - FMT
Boo Jia Cher is an FMT reader.
The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT.

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