00:00The millions of ringgit potentially saved following the decision to end toll waivers during festive seasons
00:07will allow the government to spend the money on more beneficial initiatives for the people, economists say.
00:13Aimi Zulhazmi Abdul Rashid of Universiti Kuala Lumpur and Abu Sofian Yacob of Universiti Malaysia Gelantan
00:21said the funds could now be used to boost the Sumbangan Tunai Ramah initiative.
00:26They said the money could also be used to improve the public transport system
00:31and even schemes to help improve productivity.
00:34It was estimated that Putrajaya had spent over RM350 million on toll exemptions,
00:40an initiative introduced by the Dr Mahathir Mohamad-led Pakatan Harapan administration in 2018.
00:47However, Aimi said not everyone had enjoyed these waivers
00:52as some preferred not to travel due to the congestion during such periods.
00:57He added the money saved could be used to help alleviate the cost of living for Malaysians.
01:03On Tuesday, Works Minister Alexander Nantalingi said the government would no longer give toll exemptions for festive seasons
01:11but would replace these waivers with a more targeted approach, with further announcements to be made in the near future.
01:18Sofian said the funds saved could provide better access to education in terms of schooling aid and to improve the healthcare sector.
01:26However, he added that toll waivers could still be given by the concessionaires themselves.
Comments