If you've been using the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag to breeze through the toll plazas, you'll agree that it is a much faster and smoother experience compared to Touch n' Go and SmartTAG.

And if you're one of those people who've been clamouring for RFID to be implemented in more places, well; your wish has just come true.

Phasing out other payment methods

The Works Ministry has confirmed that RFID will be available along the entire stretch of the North-South Expressway beginning 15 January 2022.

According to a report by Malay Mail quoting a statement by the ministry, RFID will be introduced at toll plazas along the highway that spans from Juru in Penang to Skudai in Johor.

For the moment, the RFID will be made available for toll transactions involving Class 1 vehicles.

“There will be a lane for RFID along the tolled highway on the west coast to help ease traffic congestion, that is in line with rapid technology developments,” said the ministry.


Image credit: Malay Mail

However, if you don't have an RFID tag fitted on your car, fret not because it will not be your only option to pay for toll.

The ministry said that payment by Touch ‘n Go and SmartTAG will still be available.

Having said that, you'll still need to invest in one sooner or later because payment via Touch ‘n Go and SmartTAG methods will eventually be phased out in stages as RFID lanes are implemented according to the Intelligent Transport System — ITS Blue Print for a Multi Lane Free Flow (MLFF).

Here's another reason why you should have an RFID tag fitted on your vehicle: it's supported by the Touch ‘n Go eWallet, which means that you can reload and top up your balance using the app instead of going to a Touch n' Go counter.

MAIN IMAGE CREDIT: The Edge Markets