SHAH ALAM — During festive seasons or heavy traffic days, many drivers often find themselves navigating through long queues on the highway.
But did you know there is a system designed to help make your travels a lot smoother? It's called the Smart Lane, a feature that allows highway users to temporarily use the emergency lane during certain situations.
Despite its benefits, confusion over its use remains. Let us break down what the Smart Lane is, how it works and when it can help make your drive easier.
WHAT IS THE SMART LANE?
The Smart Lane is an initiative introduced by highway managers, particularly on PLUS highways, to help ease traffic congestion.
Essentially, it involves the temporary opening of the emergency lane — usually designated for emergencies only — during high-traffic periods, such as festive seasons or when there is construction on the road. The goal is simple: increase lane capacity and reduce the strain on the main lanes.
Since its implementation in 2019, the Smart Lane has been expanded from its initial test on the North Klang Valley Expressway (NKVE) to other locations along the PLUS highway, helping drivers get through bottlenecks more efficiently.
WHEN AND HOW CAN YOU USE IT?
The availability of the Smart Lane is typically communicated through sign boards along the road, and on social media by highway authorities. It is activated during specific hours, usually during peak traffic times such as weekends, public holidays and the days surrounding festive celebrations.
For example, the Smart Lane is often open from 8am to 10pm, but the times can vary based on the location and circumstances.
Once you are on the road, it is important to pay attention to the yellow 'PENGAKTIFAN SMART LANE' signboard that indicates when the lane is open. If the Smart Lane is in effect, you will need to move to the leftmost lane to enter it.
Be cautious and keep your distance from other vehicles, as this lane tends to be narrower than the main lanes and drivers should always be prepared for the possibility of vehicles entering or exiting the Smart Lane.
Once you approach the end of the Smart Lane, be sure to signal early and transition back to the slower lanes safely.
THE CONFUSION AROUND THE SMART LANE
Despite the benefits of the Smart Lane, confusion over its usage persists, as highlighted in a viral TikTok video posted by user @farratownqueen on Jan 29 during the Chinese New Year holiday.
The video, which had amassed over 121,300 views at the time of writing, features the user calling out drivers using the emergency lane, mistakenly believing they were violating the law.
"These are not just regular cars; they belong to the rich," she ranted, seemingly unaware of the Smart Lane's legitimacy.
However, eagle-eyed netizens quickly pointed out that there was a sign in the background indicating that the lane was in fact a Smart Lane, legally open for use during certain hours.
One TikTok user, @ftnhnsh, pointed out: "Sis, the yellow signboard (Smart Lane) clearly says Smart Lane", while @nurainanrzn wondered: "Surely she knows, the (Smart Lane) signboard is right in front of her?"
Meanwhile, @mkgrill joked: "Where did you buy that confidence, sis?"
This incident sheds a light on the ongoing shift in public perception about emergency lanes. While these lanes were once reserved for emergencies and seen as off-limits to regular drivers, Malaysia has now strategically designated them to help manage traffic more effectively.
WHY USE THE SMART LANE
The Smart Lane is a practical solution for easing traffic jams. It offers a much-needed break in congestion, especially during high-volume travel times. However, it should not be relied upon as the sole method for avoiding traffic.
The Smart Lane is just one way to keep traffic flowing more efficiently. If used wisely and responsibly, it can certainly help save time on long trips.
As always, safety should remain the top priority. Drivers should always remain alert, drive at safe speeds and be mindful of the other vehicles around them.
The Smart Lane may be one of Malaysia's most innovative traffic management strategies, but it requires drivers to stay informed and aware.
So next time you hit the highway, do not forget to check for Smart Lane announcements, and follow the rules to make your journey smoother and safer.