Mastercard announced its partnership with PLUS Malaysia, the largest toll expressway operator in Malaysia, for the pilot launch of PLUS RFID. Leveraging Mastercard’s payments technology, PLUS RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) will enable, safe, convenient, and seamless toll payments for highway users in the northern region of Malaysia. The pilot program will be implemented at toll plazas in Penang (Penang Bridge and Butterworth-Kulim Expressway) and in Kedah (Jitra).
Mastercard’s latest collaboration is part of the company’s commitment to supporting the Malaysian government’s cashless society and smart city agenda. The partnership offers highway users an innovative payment solution that that speeds up the toll collection process as there is no longer the need to stop at the booth to hand over cash.
Perry Ong, Country Manager, Malaysia and Brunei, Mastercard, said “More than half of the world’s population today live in cities, a number that is set to increase to 70 percent by 2050. With so many people living and working in and traveling in and out of cities, many countries face challenges in transit such as road congestion. Mastercard is proud to partner with PLUS to enable drivers to speed up their commute time and make their journeys smoother.”
In addition to PLUS RFID, Mastercard will expand its contactless footprint by launching the first contactless-enabled rest and relaxation station at Dengkil Southbound Rest and Service Area (RSA). The RSA will enable local businesses to offer the convenience and speed of contactless payments to their customers.
“With the introduction of contactless payments at the RSA in Dengkil, Mastercard is pleased to offer merchants and consumers the speed and security that come with contactless payment technology. Mastercard understands that Malaysia is changing and is moving towards a more digital era where consumers will expect a better payments experience,” said Perry.
PLUS RFID will be rolled out in phases to all PLUS highways and made available to all Malaysians. Registration is currently free. To participate in the pilot, highway users need to register. A sticker with a built-in RFID chip that is unique to each vehicle will be generated after registration. Participants can choose to register their Mastercard debit or credit card, along with their personal details.
