Kuala Lumpur-Karak widening and new Genting Sempah tunnel to finish in 2029

KUALA LUMPUR, 20 AUGUST 2026 —

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s RM2.1 billion Kuala Lumpur-Karak Highway (KLK) expansion and Third Genting Sempah Tunnel project to be completed by 2029

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Third Genting Sempah Tunnel and KLK expansion project, Alexander said the 45.3-kilometre project includes a 999-meter tunnel and aims to address congestion and safety concerns along the KL-Karak route.

Physical works began on March 9, following approval from the Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM). The project was originally contracted to be completed in four years by concessionaire Kumpulan AFA, but the company has now committed to an earlier completion date of 2029.

“This is very encouraging as it is ahead of schedule,” Alexander said. “We know how critical this project is to address congestion and improve safety and comfort for road users traveling between the Klang Valley and the East Coast.”

The expansion will upgrade the Gombak to Genting Sempah section from three lanes to four, and the Genting Sempah to Bentong section from two lanes to three. The project is deemed necessary due to a significant increase in daily traffic, which has risen from approximately 41,000 vehicles in 1997 to 170,000 vehicles per day currently.

Alexander also highlighted that the tunnel construction will use a method deemed more suitable for the physical conditions of the area, rather than the conventional tunnel boring machine.

The project is being implemented by Kumpulan AFA, the highway concessionaire, with LLM chairman Datuk Seri Hasni Mohammad and Kumpulan AFA chairman Tan Sri Azmil Khalid also present at the groundbreaking ceremony.

Impact on Malaysia’s transport infrastructure and economy The KLK highway is a critical artery connecting the Klang Valley to the East Coast, serving as a key route for both commuters and goods transportation. The expansion and tunnel construction are expected to alleviate chronic congestion, reduce travel time, and improve road safety along this heavily trafficked corridor.

The project’s acceleration to 2029 could bring forward economic benefits, including reduced logistics costs, improved connectivity for tourism and trade, and enhanced regional integration. The KLK route is a link for goods moving between ports in Klang and the industrial and agricultural hubs in Pahang and beyond.

Sector and company specifics Kumpulan AFA, the concessionaire for the KLK highway, is responsible for the project’s execution. The company has committed to delivering the project ahead of schedule, signaling potential efficiency gains in Malaysia’s infrastructure development.

The LLM, under the Ministry of Works, is overseeing the project to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards. The use of an alternative tunneling method, rather than conventional boring machines, suggests an adaptation to the geological and environmental conditions of the Genting Sempah area.

Outlook and next steps With physical works already underway, the project is expected to progress steadily toward its 2029 completion target. The completion of the expansion and tunnel will mark a significant milestone in Malaysia’s efforts to modernize its highway network and address the growing demands of its transportation sector.

Further updates on construction progress and traffic management during the project’s execution are expected to be released by the Ministry of Works and LLM in the coming months.

Related: KLK · Kuala Lumpur