Finding a parking spot in Penang is going to get pricier, and netizens have a lot to say about it. Majlis Bandaraya Pulau Pinang’s (MBPP) decision to raise parking fees up to 50% starting from March 2025, sparked mixed reactions from netizens, with some supporting the decision to combat rising congestion while others fear the financial strain.
According to reports, the increase will affect Penang Smart Parking (PSP) users, with rates increasing from RM 0.40 to RM 0.60 per 30 minutes, RM 0.80 to RM 1.20 for 1 hour, and RM 9 instead of RM 6 for a full day. This hike in rates marks the second time MBPP has raised parking fees this year, with the first time being in January 2025.
Netizens took to social media, with some welcoming the change in rates as a way to curb growing congestion problems arising in Penang as well as an increase in funds for the city council to repair damaged roads. Some netizens commented on how hiking up parking rates might lessen the number of cars on the road and expressed how we should migrate to using motorcycles.
City officials argued that the changes in parking fees are detrimental in helping to control the congestion problem, as well as to use funds in upgrading the parking Smart Sensors. However, many locals are not convinced and are making their opinions known online.
Daily commuters expressed dissatisfaction with the increase in rates. Facebook user @/Aboo Hudz comments that a full day of parking would cost up to RM9 from the previous RM6. He continued by expressing his frustration at how people who have to pay a full day of parking will have to work harder to pay these fees. The change in rates by MBPP also sparked controversy through social media over the city council’s infrastructure plan, with some arguing that development plans have created unnecessary traffic jams.
Twitter user @/sinlexon commented how the surge in parking fees is an unethical decision on the city council’s part as it is a direct burden on the people’s cost of living. Despite rising disputes from the people, MBPP continues to encourage the public to utilise its public transport, such as Rapid Penang bus services, to aid in daily public gridlock.
Sources: Facebook, Twitter, Bernama
Alyssa Gabrielle contributed to this article
