page_title: SmartTAG
section_title: History
hierarchical_section_title: SmartTAG / History
caption_attribution_description: English: A typical entrance of SmartTAG lanes on Malaysian expressways.
context_page_description: SmartTAG is an on-board unit vehicle-based device used as an electronic toll collection system over long distances to complement Touch 'n Go, a card-based system. It was first introduced in Malaysia in 1999 and is also used as an Entrance Access Security.
context_section_description: Prior to the introduction of SmartTAG, several different types of non-stop ETC were already being used in Malaysia:
  PLUS TAG for all PLUS (Projek Lebuhraya Utara Selatan) expressways in Klang Valley 1994–1999
  Express TAG for Shah Alam Expressway 1996–2004
  FasTrak for Damansara–Puchong Expressway and Sprint Expressway 1999–2004
  Saga Tag for Cheras–Kajang Expressway 1999–2004
  SmartTAG was officially launched on 15 March 1999, phasing out PLUS TAG at over 20 plazas of Projek Lebuhraya Utara-Selatan (PLUS) / North–South Expressway.
  In December 2003, Minister of Works, Datuk Seri S Samy Vellu directed the implementation of a single ETC nationwide as a form of standardisation and convenience of use for road users. The directive requires all major toll operators in Malaysia to have a minimum of 2 Touch 'n Go and 1 SmartTAG lanes per direction at every plaza. The directive was gradually implemented by all major toll operators on 1 July 2004 and marked the cessation of other types of non-stop ETCs in Malaysia.
  In 2004, SmartTAG expanded as entrance access security for residential areas. It was first (currently only) deployed at Ledang Heights Bungalow Park, in Iskandar Puteri, Johor.
  In August 2018, Touch 'n Go discontinued the sales of SmartTAG in favor of RFID-based Touch 'n Go eWallet which will start its testing phase on following month. However, LokaTAG, another authorized aftermarket SmartTAG manufacturer will provide an alternative device that will serves as drop-in replacement for SmartTAG. Unlike SmartTAG, it does not run on battery as it is powered from automobile auxiliary power outlet instead.
caption: A typical entrance of SmartTAG lanes on Malaysian expressways.
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