Heavy traffic expected on WCE during CNY return rush - plan ahead for a smooth journey

SHAH ALAM — Motorists travelling back to the Klang Valley after the Chinese New Year (CNY) holidays are urged to plan their journeys carefully, as traffic volumes along the West Coast Expressway (WCE) are expected to surge this weekend.

In a statement, WCE said peak return traffic is anticipated between Saturday and Sunday, coinciding with the end of CNY celebrations, the conclusion of school holidays and the approaching start of Ramadan.

Daily traffic volume is projected to exceed 160,000 vehicles, with the heaviest congestion expected from mid-afternoon until late evening on inbound routes heading towards Kuala Lumpur and the Klang Valley.

WCE noted that unlike the outbound traffic flow earlier in the festive period, which was spread over several days, the return journey is expected to be more concentrated as families rush to resume work and school routines ahead of Ramadan.

To ease congestion and ensure smoother journeys, WCE advised motorists to plan their trips in advance and depart early in the morning where possible to avoid peak hours.

Motorists are also encouraged to download the WCE mobile application for real-time traffic updates, live CCTV feeds and highway information.

In addition, road users are reminded to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before travelling, including checking fuel levels, brakes, tyres and engine condition. Electric vehicle users can recharge at high-capacity charging stations located at Plaza Tol Trong and Plaza Tol Taiping Selatan in Perak, as well as Plaza Tol SAE and Plaza Tol Assam Jawa in Selangor.

WCE also stressed the importance of road safety, urging motorists to obey speed limits, wear seatbelts, remain alert and avoid driving while fatigued.

Motorcyclists, meanwhile, are reminded that emergency lanes are strictly reserved for emergencies such as accidents and breakdowns, and are not designated lanes for motorcycle use. Misuse of these lanes could endanger both riders and other road users.

Travellers may take breaks at WCE’s six fully operational Rest and Service Areas (RSAs), namely RSA Sungai Nyiur (northbound and southbound), RSA Bukit Kapar (northbound and southbound), RSA Sijangkang and RSA Johan Setia.

Motorists are also advised to ensure sufficient toll balance by topping up Touch ‘n Go cards or e-wallets at self-service kiosks available at all 14 toll plazas to avoid unnecessary delays.

For emergencies or assistance along the highway, road users can contact the WCE Infoline at 1700-81-6600.

The West Coast Expressway spans 233 kilometres, connecting Banting in Selangor to Taiping in Perak, and plays a key role in improving connectivity and supporting economic growth along Malaysia’s west coast.