KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Highway Authority (MHA) expects an increase in traffic during Chinese New Year.
The association said it expected 2.4 million vehicles to use the highway networks on peak days.
"Of this number, 1.5 million vehicles will use the North-South Expressway (NSE), 199,000 vehicles will use the the Kuala Lumpur-Karak Highway and 167,000 vehicles will use Phase One and Phase Two of the East Coast Highway."
The association has directed concession companies to ensure the safety and smoothness of users.
"We've told concessionaires that they can't close highway lanes, except for emergencies, from Feb 5 to 14.
"They should activate smart-lane routes in identified locations on the NSE and tidal-flow lanes on the KL-Karak Highway.
"We've instructed concessionaires to ensure proper operation of highways and facilities during this period, especially at rest-and-service areas and rest stops.
"They need to make sure the toll collection system is functioning properly to avoid congestion at toll plazas, as well as adding temporary toll lanes at high-traffic tolls.
"Concessionaires must provide additional facilities for parking and mobile toilets at several rest-and-service areas on the NSE, KL-Karak Highway and Phase One of the East Coast Highway."
The association instructed concessionaires to increase the number of personnel to maintain toilet cleanliness and water and oil supplies at petrol stations.
"Highway users are urged to ensure that their vehicle is in good condition, to have sufficient funds for their Touch 'n Go cards or e-wallets, and activate the pay-wave feature on debit or credit cards for the open-payment toll collection system.
"They need to follow traffic signs if using smart lanes, and motorcyclist should seek shelter at motorcycle shelters during bad weather."
Earlier today, the government said it would waive toll payments for private vehicles on Feb 8 and 9 in conjunction with Chinese New Year.
Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said the waiver would cost the government RM42.99 million.