As Malaysia's cities grow and people's transport needs change, smarter, more seamless public transport becomes increasingly urgent. Digitalising parking at LRT stations is one of the many changes currently occurring. It is becoming a key way to make commuting easier, improve operational efficiency, and support the country's goals for innovative and sustainable cities.

Current Scenario: Prasarana's Parking Transformation

For many people who commute daily, the trip doesn't start on the train; it begins in the parking lot. The overall transit experience is based on easily finding a parking space, paying without any problems, and quickly switching between private cars and public transportation. Prasarana Malaysia Berhad has taken a big step to change how it runs its LRT parking because it knows this.

Prasarana is currently in charge of 32 parking lots on its rail network. Of these, 21 have already been made digital, which means that people can pay without touching anything, the system can be monitored in real time, and it is easier to use. Eight places have been improved even more with License Plate Recognition (LPR) technology, which lets people enter and leave without tickets. Prasarana is continuing to implement its modernisation plan in stages, which will likely result in the completion of additional sites soon.

Strategic Purpose Behind Digitalisation

The digitalisation of parking is not merely about replacing manual systems with machines. It reflects a broader ambition to enhance the entire transit ecosystem. With digital systems in place, commuters enjoy smoother first-mile and last-mile connections. Mobile app integration enables users to check space availability, make advance payments, or access loyalty benefits.

From an operational perspective, digital parking allows for round-the-clock monitoring, reduced dependency on manual staffing, and more precise data analytics. Real-time tracking of parking patterns, peak usage, and payment behaviour provides actionable insights for improved planning. Furthermore, it facilitates the implementation of dynamic pricing strategies, the management of congestion, and the implementation of green initiatives such as EV charging and paperless systems.

Challenges in Implementation

Despite the promise of parking digitalisation, the journey has not been without hurdles. Many existing parking structures were built in an era before digital readiness. Retrofitting these facilities requires significant investment in infrastructure such as LPR systems, payment kiosks, cabling, and networking hardware.

An added layer of complexity is the issue of jurisdiction. Not all parking facilities are located on land owned solely by Prasarana. In some cases, the land belongs to local councils or other public bodies, necessitating extensive coordination, legal agreements, and revenue-sharing negotiations that can delay implementation.

Digital adoption among users is also uneven. While urban commuters are generally comfortable using digital platforms, some segments, especially senior citizens or individuals without smartphones, may find the new systems unfamiliar. Ensuring inclusivity means providing hybrid solutions and user support throughout the transition.

Cybersecurity, too, is a pressing concern. As parking systems become connected and data-driven, they must be safeguarded against potential threats. Protecting user data, payment systems, and operational continuity requires a robust digital security infrastructure and regular monitoring.

Integration: The Missing Link

While digitalisation improves standalone parking operations, its actual value lies in integration. Parking systems must work with ticketing, real-time train information, and journey planning apps to deliver a seamless experience. Achieving this level of interoperability requires collaboration across departments and external partners, including technology providers, payment platforms, and mobile app developers.

Conclusion: Laying the Foundation for Smart Mobility

Parking digitalisation represents an essential step toward transforming Malaysia's public transportation system into a world-class, commuter-focused service. With 21 out of 32 facilities already upgraded and more in progress, Prasarana is laying strong foundations for the future. As the infrastructure matures and user adoption grows, digital parking will become a convenient catalyst for more intelligent, greener, and more connected cities.