AFA PRIME Berhad: KL-Karak Expressway Expansion to Begin Q2 2025; Flood Mitigation Works Already Underway on LPT1

AFA PRIME Berhad (formerly known as ANIH Berhad), the concessionaire of the KL-Karak Expressway (KLK) and East Coast Expressway 1 (LPT1), is moving forward with two major infrastructure initiatives aimed at improving highway safety, easing congestion, and strengthening climate resilience: the KLK Widening Project, scheduled to begin in Q2 2025, and the Flood Mitigation Project, which is already underway along LPT1.

The KL-Karak Expressway Expansion Project covers a stretch from KM19.2 to KM64.5, between the Gombak Toll Plaza and Bentong Toll Plaza. In response to steadily rising traffic volumes particularly during weekends and festive seasons, the project is designed to accommodate future demand while prioritising safety and efficiency. With a construction timeline of 48 months, preparatory works such as slope trimming, drainage upgrades, flood mitigation, and retaining wall construction are already in progress.

“The expansion is about rethinking how a highway should serve its people, not just in terms of capacity, but in reliability, safety, and long-term resilience. Our goal is to build a future-ready expressway. We have incorporated real-time monitoring systems, contingency planning, and emergency response protocols to ensure that motorists remain safe and informed even during construction.” said Ir. Vijayaraj, Executive Director of AFA PRIME Berhad.

Key features of the project include the addition of one lane in each direction and the widening of road shoulders from 2.5 metres to 3 metres on both sides, in compliance with guidelines set by the Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM). This will allow for the flexible activation of the shoulders as smart lanes during peak periods, effectively increasing the number of operational lanes and significantly improving traffic flow.

To strengthen emergency response and prevent secondary incidents, the project includes the addition of eight new emergency bays. These areas will allow vehicles with breakdowns to be quickly cleared from  active lanes, minimising  disruption and enhancing motorist safety. Recognising Genting Sempah Tunnel as a high-traffic zone, construction  in this area will be limited to non-peak hours. Night visibility will be improved with floodlights, while  existing lighting will be repositioned for maximum effect upon completion.

In parallel with the upcoming KLK expansion, AFA PRIME Berhad has initiated flood mitigation works along LPT1 to improve climate resilience and ensure uninterrupted highway operations during periods of extreme weather. These ongoing efforts include comprehensive risk assessments, drainage upgrades, and infrastructure enhancements to reduce the risk of flash flooding along the route.

To manage traffic effectively throughout the construction phase, AFA PRIME Berhad has appointed Edgenta PROPEL Berhad as its traffic management partner. Leveraging its extensive experience in highway operations, the company will deploy safety assets including barriers, cones, signage, flagmen, and patrol teams. Their 24/7 monitoring capabilities will be key to maintaining safety and reducing congestion during the construction phase.

Digital Variable Message Systems (VMS) will be installed along the routes to display traffic alerts  and emergency notices. These will be reinforced by regular updates on AFA PRIME Berhad’s social media platforms, allowing motorists to plan their journeys in real time.

Both the KLK expansion and LPT1 flood mitigation projects are part of a broader national effort to improve connectivity, economic mobility, and public safety. As vital corridors linking the Klang Valley to the East Coast, KLK and LPT1 play a central role in the movement of people and goods across Peninsular Malaysia. AFA PRIME Berhad remains committed to delivering these projects on schedule and to the highest standards, ensuring that Malaysians can travel with greater confidence, security, and ease in the years ahead.