Background: A Long-Awaited Digital Upgrade - For years, Malaysian drivers have been hearing about the move towards a more seamless toll payment experience. At the heart of this effort is Account Based Transaction (ABT), better known as PayDirect, which allows motorists to link their Touch 'n Go eWallet directly to their toll usage. Instead of topping up cards manually, payments are deducted in real time from the eWallet balance.
This idea was first floated in 2019, and while it has been rolled out on certain highways and parking facilities, it has yet to become the standard across PLUS Malaysia Berhad's network — including the critical North-South Expressway (NSE).
LLM's Firm Directive to PLUS
The Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) has now issued a strong push for action. PLUS has officially been instructed to implement ABT across its highways, starting with updates on pilot projects along key stretches:
LLM's directive includes not only presenting the progress of these pilots but also submitting a comprehensive rollout plan for ABT adoption across the entire PLUS highway network.
Timelines and Deadlines
LLM isn't leaving much room for delays this time. PLUS has been told to review its internal reports and present findings by 23 September. Following that, a Test on Completion (TOC) is scheduled between 29 September and 3 October, covering the busy Juru (Penang) to Skudai (Johor) stretch of the NSE.
This marks a significant milestone, as the Juru–Skudai corridor is one of the most heavily used stretches of highway in the country. A successful test here would pave the way for full adoption.
Why PayDirect Matters for Drivers
The ABT system isn't just about convenience — it solves real problems for road users:
Early pilot tests have shown positive results, and motorists have expressed strong support for wider adoption.
The Push Stems from Delays
While the benefits are clear, rollout delays have frustrated both regulators and the public. According to reports, LLM had already flagged slow progress earlier this year. A February letter and an April meeting highlighted concerns, leading to commitments by PLUS to:
Despite these promises, progress has remained sluggish, prompting this latest directive.
What's Next?
With deadlines looming, PLUS is under pressure to demonstrate results quickly. If the TOC in late September proves successful, drivers could finally see ABT — and by extension, PayDirect — become a mainstream toll payment method across Malaysia's largest highway network.
For everyday Malaysians, this means fewer bottlenecks, fewer payment headaches, and a step closer to a fully digital highway experience. The next few weeks will be crucial in determining whether this long-discussed initiative finally hits the fast lane.
Comments 9
PLUS has improved a lot, it's really good now!
People have been waiting for PayDirect for a long time, so it’s good that LLM is pushing PLUS to speed up the rollout. Pilots at BKE and Penang Bridge are good steps, but users want to see results on all highways. Don’t drag it out too long a nationwide standardised system will make things much easier for everyone
Drivers need to play their part too. It’s easy to blame the operator, but sometimes the problem is just that people didn’t prepare properly before driving.
Thankyou PLUS for the effort
I think PLUS have lot of improvement now..it's very satisfied..
Among all the highway operators, I think PLUS performs the best.
The changes that we waitttt! Thanks PLUS
If you’re low on balance, that’s on you. Don’t hold up the cars behind and blame the highway operator. Check your balance beforehand and make sure you’ve got enough money, man.
I think there are already many payment options, I can’t wait for JustGo later—faster and easier.