Some Malaysian are very happy with the reduction in road tax announced recently. But actually the saving are negligible. Have a look at the simple calculation below:

Road tax reduction = RM50 for one year

For per day = RM50/365

= RM0.1370 per day (Wow. That's certainly huge savings, isn't it?)

On the other hand, the recent toll rate hikes will really bite into our pockets. Imagine a motorist using the Kesas Highway daily from Klang to Kuala Lumpur and back.

Past toll rate = RM1.50 per toll gate x 6 toll gates = RM9.00 per day

Present toll rate = RM2.20 per toll gates x 6 toll gate = RM13.20 per day

Difference = RM0.70 per toll gate

For one return trip = RM0.70 x 6 toll gates

= RM4.20 per day

Now, a normal working person works 240 days a year. Therefore the increased amount he will pay for toll following the hike is:

For one year = 240 days x RM4.20

= RM1,008

The total toll amount he will pay is: RM13.20/day x 240 days

= RM3,168 per year

If the average Malaysian salary is RM2,000 month, this means annually the toll hike will consume more than half-a-month's salary! Syabas to Malaysians for paying half-a-month's salary just for toll!

Then again, the Malaysian workers' pay scheme is ancient. It should be revised to take into account all these price hikes. The MTUC should look into this matter seriously.