Wait for PM's announcement on takeover of Gamuda-related highways, says Guan Eng

PUTRAJAYA (Jan 17): Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng said there will be an update on the government's proposed takeover of the four Klang Valley highways managed by Gamuda Bhd concessionaires.

"Definitely there is an update. I've said it before I don't want to make this announcement. Probably we wait for the Prime Minister's instruction," Lim said at the signing ceremony of a supplementary agreement for the Mass Rapid Transit 2 (MRT2).

On the government's decision to not sell PLUS Malaysia Bhd, and that PLUS shareholders — Khazanah and the Employees Provident Fund — would reduce tolls by 18%, Lim said a written explanation will be provided.

"There will be a thorough and complete written explanation. It should be cominglah. We are still waiting for the instruction from the Prime Minister.

"Then it will be handed over to the government [after the concession agreements conclude]. It will be handed [over] free of charge, no more debt loan, except for the maintenance cost," he said.

PLUS' highways concessions have been extended for another 20 years as part of the government's decision.