Peak-Hour Heavy Vehicle Ban Improves Traffic By 30%

The Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) recently announced that, as of February 19, 2025, heavy vehicles will not be allowed to travel on some Klang Valley routes during rush hour.
Despite strong opposition, particularly from transport industry associations who fear interruptions to their supply chains and livelihoods, the initiative appears to have improved traffic flow on Klang Valley highways.

Traffic flow on the North-South Expressway Central Link (Elite) increased by 30% on the first day of expanded heavy vehicle movement restrictions, according to Assistant Superintendent Amir Che Ya, Bukit Aman Traffic Enforcement and Investigation Department (JSPT) Central Zone B Highway officer, as reported by NST.
"Today's monitoring indicates a noticeable improvement in traffic flow, with a 30 per cent reduction in congestion.

"Before the restriction, the cars here (Elite) travelled at around 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. Now, they can get up to between 40 and 50."

"The restriction is not meant to inconvenience road users but to enhance the comfort of all highway users." He told reporters during a monitoring session with the media organised by Plus Malaysia Berhad at the Dengkil rest and service area.

The restriction, which was implemented in partnership with the Road Transport Department (JPJ), saw most heavy vehicle drivers changing their schedules to comply with the new rule, stopping at specified rest spots before continuing their journeys, Amir says.

"We have observed that many have planned their trips accordingly, making their journeys more organised.

"However, we will continue monitoring the situation in the evening session," he added. Amir emphasized that the authorities are committed to upholding the restricted hours for heavy vehicles. He stated that strict enforcement measures are in place to ensure compliance with the regulations.
Drivers found operating their heavy vehicles during the restricted hours will face legal consequences under Section 79(2) of the Road Transport Act. "We will take action against any driver found breaching the restriction period." The expansion of restrictions on heavy vehicles entering selected highways was gazetted on October 21, 2024 as part of the Cabinet Committee on Road Safety and Traffic Congestion to improve traffic flow, particularly in the Klang Valley and Kuala Lumpur city centre.

The restriction applies to Class Two (vehicles with two axles and six wheels, except buses) and Class Three (vehicles with three or more axles, except buses)from Monday to Friday, between 6:30AM – 9:30AM and 4:30PM – 7:30PM,excluding public holidays. Exemptions will be granted for emergency and enforcement services, cleaning and waste disposal, and highway maintenance.