PUTRAJAYA: The Works Ministry is formulating a new scheme for future toll concessions. 

Minister Datuk Seri S. Samy Vellu said the new scheme would provide equal benefits to highway concessionaires, financiers, the government and, more importantly, consumers.

He said the new scheme would further enhance the government's privatisation policy.

"It is the responsibility of the government and concession companies to ensure that an amicable solution is reached in drawing up concession agreements for the benefit of all parties, especially consumers," he said from Paris where he is attending a conference.

However, he did not reveal the details of the new scheme "as it is still being worked out".

Samy Vellu is leading a 16-member delegation to the five-day World Road Congress, which began Monday.

He said although Malaysia had been in the privatisation business for the last 20 years, there was still a lot more to learn in terms of consumer benefits, financial and economic implications.

He said the government's policy had been reviewed from time to time to ensure that privatisation of expressways met the objectives.

"Among others are public opinion surveys prior to privatisation of expressways, identifying the need based on demand and effect on traffic and strengthening the terms and conditions of the concession agreement," he said. - Bernama