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TRAFFIC flow on several major highways in Malaysia was reported to be slow this morning as motorists began returning to their hometowns ahead of the Aidilfitri celebrations.
A spokesperson for the Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) said that as of 8am, congestion was mainly observed on two key routes, namely the East Coast Highway (LPT) and the North-South Expressway (PLUS), while other routes, including those heading south, remained under control.
“On the LPT highway, traffic flow is slow between Lentang and Bentong due to a high increase in vehicles.
“Congestion was also detected on the KL-Karak Highway eastbound, with traffic moving slowly over a 9.8-kilometre stretch from KM48.1 to KM57.9 (Bukit Tinggi) due to a broken-down vehicle obstructing the fast lane,” he said when contacted by Bernama.
On the PLUS highway, traffic was also reported to be moving slowly from Kuala Kangsar towards Changkat Jering following a breakdown involving a trailer at KM264.4 northbound, between Ipoh Utara and Kuala Kangsar, which obstructed the left lane. Despite this, traffic conditions remained manageable.
Road users have been advised to plan their journeys carefully and to obtain the latest traffic updates via the LLM toll-free hotline at 1-800-88-7752 to avoid being caught in prolonged congestion.
Travellers Flock to Bus Terminals in Last-Minute Rush
Meanwhile, major bus terminals in the federal capital were crowded last night as travellers made last-minute journeys to return to their hometowns ahead of Hari Raya Aidilfitri, with many choosing express buses to avoid heavy highway congestion.
At the Gombak Integrated Terminal (TBG), large numbers of passengers filled the concourse, though terminal management and additional last-minute bus arrangements helped ensure orderly movement towards departure platforms.
Many city dwellers said securing tickets provided relief, noting that express buses remained the most practical alternative amid reports of slow-moving traffic on major highways during the festive exodus.
Among them was bank employee Amir Asyraf, 28, who was travelling to Tanah Merah, Kelantan, and said he opted for public transport for the first time to avoid the strain of a long journey.
"I don't want to drive because I want to avoid stress. I also wanted to experience returning home using public transport", he told New Straits Times.
At Hentian Duta, conditions were described as generally calm despite the terminal serving as a key departure point for travellers heading to northern destinations.
Factory operator Salwa Hamzah, 49, who was travelling to Parit Buntar, Perak, with her 14-year-old son, said she has relied on express bus services for the past three years.
Salwa, who purchased her tickets early during Ramadan, said the online booking system made the process convenient.
"The ticket prices are still the same", she said.
Private sector worker Iza Samsudin, 32, who is spending her first Aidilfitri in the capital, chose to travel by bus to Jitra, Kedah, as a precaution despite owning a vehicle.
She said she preferred not to undertake a long solo drive due to safety concerns.
"I am worried that if I suddenly fall asleep while driving, there will be no one to take over. So I headed straight to the bus terminal after office today", she said.
Muslims in Malaysia will celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri tomorrow. - March 20, 2026
