Cameron Highlands Road Widening Project Update

Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander has announced that the long-awaited road widening project, aimed at easing the persistent traffic congestion in Cameron Highlands, is expected to be fully completed by February 2028. This much-needed project will focus on improving traffic flow around Brinchang, one of the busiest areas in Cameron Highlands, by upgrading the existing two-lane road to a four-lane highway. Additionally, a new 3-kilometre one-way loop road will be constructed at Kea Farm to divert traffic and reduce bottlenecks that have plagued the area for years.

As part of the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) Second Rolling Plan, the project has achieved an overall physical progress of 38% to date. A key component of the works involves upgrading a 1-kilometre stretch of Federal Road FT59, from the McDonald’s Roundabout to the Brinchang/Time Tunnel junction—one of the most traffic-congested sections in Cameron Highlands, especially during peak holiday seasons when local and foreign tourists flock to the highlands.

Following a traffic congestion study completed by the Works Ministry in September 2020, the government approved the continuation of the project under the 12th Malaysia Plan Third Rolling Plan. This extension will include the construction of a bypass around Tanah Rata, another major town in Cameron Highlands, to enhance inter-district connectivity and ease the burden on the town’s road network.

Datuk Seri Alexander further noted that the next phase of the project will involve upgrading two more federal roads: FT59 (Tanah Rata – Kea Farm) and FT434 (Griddle Road), with a total length of approximately 10 kilometres. These roads are vital for connecting key areas in Cameron Highlands, supporting local businesses, tourism, and daily commutes for residents.

On the project’s implementation, he added that the letter of acceptance to the contractor was issued on February 11, and the construction site was handed over on February 16, with works now in full swing. To complement the road upgrades, the Works Ministry is also studying the installation of digital traffic signs at key junctions such as Simpang Pulai— a major entry point to Cameron Highlands from Ipoh—to provide real-time traffic updates and travel information for motorists, helping to distribute traffic more efficiently.

Datuk Seri Alexander emphasized that the upgrading of traffic and infrastructure in Cameron Highlands will be carried out in a prudent manner, balancing the need for improved road connectivity with environmental sustainability. This is crucial to preserving the highlands’ natural beauty, which is a key driver of its tourism industry.