Ahmad Maslan: Genting’s Planned Road Charge Is NOT a Toll

Deputy Minister of Works Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan has urged Genting Malaysia Berhad to avoid using the word “toll” when introducing charges for vehicles travelling up Jalan Genting Highlands. 

Speaking in Parliament, he said the term could confuse the public as tolls are typically associated with government-linked highway concessions, not privately maintained roads.

He explained that Jalan Genting is a private road and falls under the purview of the state and local councils, so using the term “toll” may give the impression that it is a government project. Ahmad suggested that Genting use a clearer term such as “vehicle charges” to prevent any misunderstandings, especially since Malaysia already has 33 toll concessionaires.

Genting Malaysia announced on Nov 13 that motorists heading up to Genting Highlands will soon be required to pay a fee, which the company says is necessary to fund road maintenance and ensure safety along the steep 24km stretch. 

The group, which has maintained the road and its surrounding slopes since the 1960s, said the implementation date and finalised rates will be revealed later.

Ahmad said he hopes the upcoming charges will be reasonable, warning that high prices could deter tourists. He also noted that Genting staff, residents, and landowners on the mountain should be exempt from paying, along with those accessing institutions such as Institut Aminuddin Baki. 

He went on to add, “only visitors heading up for entertainment or leisure purposes should be charged.”

Source: MalayMail