Tourism Minister defends proposed vehicle access charge for Genting Highlands roads

LocalTravel
20 Nov 2025 • 5:42 PM MYT
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A PROPOSED vehicle access charge for Genting Highlands is an unavoidable measure to ensure the ongoing maintenance of the private roads leading to the resort, said Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.

Tiong explained that the roads are privately owned and fully maintained by Genting Malaysia Berhad, with high upkeep costs necessitating additional funding.

“As is known, it is a private road. All maintenance work has been carried out by Genting Group. For sustainability, I think there is no other option but to implement it,” he said during a media briefing following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Resorts World Genting (RWG) and Tourism Malaysia on Thursday.

He added that while development along the route is increasing, much of the land belongs to external developers, not Genting Group.

“Developers come and go. It does not mean they are unwilling to share responsibility, but for now we agree that a ‘user pays’ concept is more appropriate.

“I have visited all sites at Genting and the most important thing is that the charges must be fair. Ensure it does not make this route like a fully public entity.

“I told them the most important thing is the cost involved. How much does it cost? If increased, what rate will be imposed? All of this is because they need to maintain the road,” he said.

Tiong also praised Genting Malaysia Berhad for their efficiency in keeping the access routes in good condition and urged the public to understand the rationale behind the toll proposal, particularly as traffic, including heavy vehicles, continues to rise along the route. - November 20, 2025