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Pasir Gudang Highway No Longer Malaysia's Worst Road

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Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

Key Takeaways:

  • Lebuhraya Pasir Gudang, once ranked as Malaysia's second-worst road, has significantly improved and is no longer in the top 10 worst roads.
  • This transformation is due to continuous road improvements, strict monitoring of overloaded heavy vehicles, and a phased, collaborative approach by JKR and MBJB.
  • A major initiative includes a RM1 million project to repair faulty underground cables and lighting, slated for completion by December 15th.
  • MBJB is also investing RM6 million in installing 1,308 Smart LED lights for enhanced durability, reduced operating costs, and improved safety.
  • The Johor state government is committed to ensuring the highway remains safe, bright, and comfortable for daily commuters and industrial users.

Table of Contents:


Has Pasir Gudang Highway really improved? We delve into the changes that led this road to shed its 'worst in Malaysia' title. Get the full story here.

For years, the mention of Lebuhraya Pasir Gudang often conjured images of bumpy rides, dim lighting, and frustrating delays. It wasn't just commuter folklore; this critical industrial artery once held the unenviable distinction of being ranked as the second-worst road in Malaysia. But a significant transformation has been quietly unfolding. Today, we're asking the question that's on every Johor resident's mind: Has Pasir Gudang Highway really improved? We delve into the changes that led this road to shed its 'worst in Malaysia' title. Get the full story here. The answer, according to recent statements and ongoing projects, is a resounding yes. Let's dive deep into the data and the collaborative efforts that have turned the tide for this vital thoroughfare.


From Worst to Watchlist: The Remarkable Turnaround

The journey from 'second-worst' to a significantly improved status is no small feat. Johor Exco for Public Works, Transportation, Infrastructure, and Communication, Mohamad Fazli Mohamad Salleh, recently confirmed that Lebuhraya Pasir Gudang is no longer among the nation's top 10 worst roads. This dramatic shift is a direct result of continuous enhancement efforts initiated since the state government took over the monitoring of this route.

"When we first took over, this road was truly terrible," recalled Mohamad Fazli. A key factor identified was the heavy usage by industrial vehicles, often overloaded, contributing significantly to road deterioration. The implementation of strict monitoring for these heavy vehicles has been a game-changer, addressing one of the root causes of the highway's rapid wear and tear. This strategic intervention, combined with ongoing physical road upgrades, has laid the groundwork for its impressive recovery.


A Phased Approach: JKR and MBJB's Collaborative Drive

Addressing a query from Permas assemblyman regarding the completion timeline and street lighting issues, Mohamad Fazli outlined a clear, phased strategy involving two key agencies: JKR (Jabatan Kerja Raya - Public Works Department) and MBJB (Majlis Bandaraya Johor Bahru - Johor Bahru City Council).

Perling to Perling Interchange (JKR's Domain)

The initial 1.5-kilometer stretch, from Perling to the Perling Interchange, falls under JKR's direct responsibility. This section, equipped with 52 lamp poles, has fortunately recorded no damage, indicating effective maintenance and operational efficiency in this specific zone.

Perling Interchange to Bandar Seri Alam / Taman Rinting (MBJB's Responsibility)

The majority of the highway, covering an expansive 23.5 kilometers from the Perling Interchange to Bandar Seri Alam / Taman Rinting, is managed by MBJB. This section is significantly larger, housing 1,308 lamp poles. Unfortunately, this segment has faced more challenges, with 167 recorded faulty lights, largely due to damaged underground cables and equipment. This highlights the scale of the maintenance challenge and the focused efforts now underway to rectify it.


Illuminating the Path: Current & Future Lighting Upgrades

The state's commitment extends beyond just road surfaces; ensuring a well-lit highway is paramount for safety and comfort, especially along an industrial corridor. Significant investments are being channeled into upgrading the lighting infrastructure.

Underground Cable Repairs and Immediate Fixes

MBJB is currently actively engaged in repairing the damaged underground cables and faulty lighting equipment. This crucial work comes with an estimated cost of RM1 million and is targeted for completion by December 15th. This immediate intervention will restore much-needed illumination to affected sections, enhancing nighttime visibility and driver confidence.

Embracing Smart Technology: The Smart LED Revolution

Looking ahead, MBJB is also embarking on a more comprehensive preventive maintenance strategy. This involves the installation of 1,308 units of Smart LED lights (Lampu LED Pintar) across the highway. This forward-thinking project carries an estimated cost of RM6 million. The adoption of Smart LED technology offers multiple benefits:

  • Enhanced Durability: Smart LEDs are known for their extended lifespan, reducing the frequency of replacements and maintenance.
  • Reduced Operating Costs: These intelligent lights are significantly more energy-efficient than traditional streetlights, leading to substantial savings in electricity bills over the long term.
  • Improved Safety: Brighter, more consistent illumination enhances visibility for drivers, reduces glare, and creates a safer environment for all road users, especially in areas with high heavy vehicle traffic.
  • Remote Monitoring & Control: Smart LED systems often come with capabilities for remote diagnostics and control, allowing authorities to monitor light performance, detect faults instantly, and manage lighting levels dynamically based on traffic or weather conditions, optimizing energy use and response times.

This strategic investment underscores a commitment not just to fixing existing problems but to building a more resilient, efficient, and technologically advanced infrastructure for the future.


Beyond Repairs: A Commitment to Sustainable Infrastructure

The journey of Lebuhraya Pasir Gudang serves as a powerful testament to the impact of dedicated governance and strategic infrastructure planning. With rigorous monitoring of heavy vehicles, continuous road surface improvements, and ambitious lighting maintenance projects, the highway has undergone a remarkable transformation. This is not merely about repair; it's about building sustainable infrastructure that supports economic growth and enhances daily life.

The state government has unequivocally reiterated its commitment to ensuring that this vital industrial artery remains safe, brightly lit, and comfortable for the thousands of daily commuters and industrial transporters who rely on it. This proactive stance ensures that Pasir Gudang Highway will continue to play its crucial role in Johor's economic landscape, facilitating smoother logistics and safer journeys for everyone.


Driving Towards a Brighter Future

From its challenging past as one of Malaysia's most notoriously bad roads, Lebuhraya Pasir Gudang has emerged as a beacon of progress and effective infrastructure management. The collaborative efforts of JKR and MBJB, coupled with smart technological investments, are creating a highway that is not only safer but also more efficient and future-ready. The next time you traverse this route, take a moment to appreciate the significant improvements and the dedication behind them. It's a tangible demonstration of how strategic intervention and continuous commitment can truly transform public infrastructure.

What has your experience been like on the Pasir Gudang Highway recently? Have you noticed the changes? Share your thoughts and observations in the comments below! Your feedback helps us understand the real-world impact of these vital improvements. And if you're interested in other major infrastructure projects in Malaysia, be sure to check out our related articles on upcoming highway enhancements and safe driving tips for Malaysian roads.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Has Pasir Gudang Highway really improved? We delve into the changes that led this road to shed its 'worst in Malaysia' title. Get the full story here.
A1: Yes, absolutely! Lebuhraya Pasir Gudang is no longer among Malaysia's top 10 worst roads. This significant improvement is a result of continuous road upgrades, stricter monitoring of heavy vehicles, and a major initiative to repair and upgrade its lighting systems.

Q2: Who is responsible for maintaining different parts of the Pasir Gudang Highway?
A2: Maintenance responsibilities are divided: JKR (Jabatan Kerja Raya) handles the 1.5 km section from Perling to Perling Interchange. MBJB (Majlis Bandaraya Johor Bahru) is responsible for the longer 23.5 km stretch from Perling Interchange to Bandar Seri Alam / Taman Rinting, including its numerous streetlights.

Q3: What are Smart LEDs and why are they being installed on the highway?
A3: Smart LEDs are advanced lighting units that offer greater energy efficiency, extended durability, and often come with remote monitoring and control capabilities. MBJB is installing 1,308 Smart LED units (at an estimated cost of RM6 million) to enhance the highway's lighting system, making it more resilient, cost-effective, and safer for long-term operation.

Q4: When will the current lighting repairs be completed on the highway?
A4: MBJB is actively working on repairing damaged underground cables and faulty lighting equipment. This RM1 million project is estimated to be completed by December 15th, restoring full illumination to affected areas.

Q5: How can I report road or lighting issues on Pasir Gudang Highway?
A5: For issues within JKR's section (Perling to Perling Interchange), you can contact JKR Johor. For the longer section managed by MBJB (Perling Interchange to Bandar Seri Alam / Taman Rinting), you can report issues directly to MBJB's complaint channels, typically through their official website, mobile app, or dedicated hotline. Prompt reporting helps ensure swift resolution and continued maintenance of the highway.

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