PM Anwar Officiates Country's First Sustainable Highway R&R

SEREMBAN, Sept 8 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today officiated the Seremban southbound rest and service (R&R) area on the North-South Expressway, marking the launch of the country’s first sustainable highway R&R.

He emphasised that the development of this first sustainable R&R is a significant step toward prioritising facilities that benefit the public.

“I have travelled this highway for decades, and I have never seen an R&R as impressive and sustainable as this one. The people of Seremban and Negeri Sembilan are fortunate to have such a facility; it is a great start for both traders and the community,” he said.

“This marks a crucial milestone for our country - balancing development with addressing the needs of the grassroots. This R&R features the best surau, incorporating natural ventilation, solar energy, and water conservation. I extend my gratitude for this outstanding initiative,” he added.

“This fantastic facility is unique to Seremban. If we are committed to innovation and sustainability, we can elevate our country to greater heights,” he said.

Also present were Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun, Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) chairman Datuk Seri Hasni Mohammad and PLUS Malaysia Berhad chairman Datuk Mohamad Nasir Ab Latif.

The Prime Minister emphasised that the sustainable features of the R&R, such as the use of solar energy and rainwater harvesting systems, should set a precedent for all highways in the country and could be expanded to other R&R areas.

“What is notable is the use of solar energy and rainwater for facilities like bathrooms and toilets. I stress that the Seremban southbound R&R should be viewed as a model for all highways in Malaysia and an example to follow,” he said.

Meanwhile, Nanta expressed strong support for the sustainable R&R concept and hoped for its broader implementation.

“I encourage highway concessionaires to collaborate on expanding this concept as it enhances public comfort,” he said.

The redevelopment of the Seremban southbound R&R area, located at KM274.6 between the Nilai Interchange and Bandar Ainsdale Interchange, represents a significant investment of RM45 million aimed at meeting the growing needs of highway users while prioritising sustainable infrastructure development.

This newly redesigned R&R has achieved Green Building Index (GBI) Gold Rating certification and incorporates sustainable building materials.

It is the first in the country to feature green technologies such as solar panels, electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, rainwater harvesting systems, waste composting machines, fabric recycling bins, and biodegradable packaging containers.

Additionally, the R&R boasts a food court nearly eight times larger than the original, accommodating over 500 visitors. The surau has been redesigned for enhanced comfort, with space for up to 150 men and 150 women.

-- BERNAMA