Malaysia, October 2026 – Prasarana Malaysia Bhd is expected to finalise procurement and evaluation for its open payment system by the end of 2026, according to Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook. The project will be introduced in phases, with full implementation targeted within 30 months for Rapid KL rail services and 15 months for Rapid Bus services in the Klang Valley, measured from the project’s commencement.
The system is designed to support MyDebit cards, international credit and debit cards, near-field communication (NFC) contactless payments, digital wallets, approved e-wallet platforms, QR payments and Touch ’n Go cards. During the first 12 months after implementation begins, 30% of passenger access and fare collection equipment at each Rapid KL rail station is expected to support open payments. The phased approach will allow the technology to be introduced progressively across the network.
The rollout will cover Prasarana-operated Rapid Rail and Rapid Bus services in the Klang Valley, as well as relevant bus services in Penang. By accepting multiple payment methods, the system aims to reduce reliance on a single ticketing platform and give passengers greater flexibility when accessing public transport. Successful implementation will require compatible fare gates, payment terminals and supporting systems to operate reliably across different services.
The project was initially announced in October 2023, with earlier targets for bus implementation by the end of 2024 and rail implementation by August 2025. However, the first tender was not awarded, requiring a new procurement exercise. Loke said the process was managed by Prasarana and remained in the final stages of technical and commercial evaluation, with the necessary approvals required before the contract could be awarded.
The initiative reflects a broader shift towards interoperable ticketing and digital fare collection in public transport. Its impact will depend on timely implementation, reliable payment processing and clear communication with commuters during the transition. Once operational, the system could improve the passenger experience while supporting Malaysia’s wider efforts to build a more integrated and digitally accessible public transport network.
Source: The Edge
Prasarana Targets Phased Open Payment Rollout Across Rail and Bus Networks
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Modernising fare collection is an important step towards making public transport more accessible and convenient, particularly as cities expand integrated mobility services. Malaysia’s Prasarana is preparing to introduce an open payment system across its rail and bus networks in the Klang Valley and Penang, allowing passengers to use a wider range of bank cards and digital payment methods.
