Malaysia introduces its first “glow-in-the-dark” road markings in Semenyih

MALAYSIA: The Hulu Langat District Public Works Department (JKR) in Semenyih, Selangor, has recently unveiled the installation of “glow-in-the-dark” road markings, marking the first of its kind in Malaysia.

These innovative markings, located on Jalan Sg Lalang B19 and Jalan Sg Tekali B16, illuminate when vehicles pass by, providing enhanced visibility during nighttime travels.

The project was successfully completed on October 28.

Innovative “glow-in-the-dark” road markings 

The glow-in-the-dark paint used for these road markings is part of a pilot project initiated by the JKR Hulu Langat, demonstrating the department’s commitment to bringing innovation to road engineering.

In a Facebook post, JKR Hulu Langat shared before-and-after videos and photos, showcasing the transformation of the road markings, particularly their vibrant green glow at night.

“This glow-in-the-dark road marking is our attempt to bring innovation into road engineering,” JKR said in a Facebook post.

“Please do not be surprised if you happen to drive through the area.”

Prior to applying the road markings, the vicinity was devoid of street lights, creating challenges for nighttime travellers navigating through the darkened area.

Minister commends durable glow-in-the-dark road markings for enhanced visibility in rain or shine

Additionally, Malaysia’s Works Minister, Alexander Nanta Linggi, personally inspected the markings on November 15.

He emphasized that these glow-in-the-dark road markings have a durability of up to 10 hours and provide a noticeable glow effect, even in rainy weather conditions.

During a press conference on thursday, Mr Alexander remarked, “So it seems that there is indeed a difference from the usual; it is more visible in the dark.”

“For roads lacking lighting, this luminescence can significantly aid drivers and road users, enhancing safety and comfort during nighttime travel,” he emphasized.

The initial stretch of this “glow-in-the-dark” road paint spans 490 meters, serving as a promising start to a potentially transformative safety measure.

Mr Alexander mentioned that while the ministry acknowledges the positive aspects of the project, including increased safety, they are currently evaluating its overall effectiveness and addressing the relatively high implementation costs.

Public praise and concerns surrounding Malaysia’s “Glow-in-the-dark” road markings

Moreover, based on the comments, the introduction of these innovative road markings has garnered positive responses from the Malaysian public, with some giving their own suggestions.

Netizens have praised the initiative, emphasizing its potential to significantly enhance road safety, especially in areas lacking street lamps.

A user concurred that it enhances safety, but recommended that drivers exercise caution despite the presence of the new markings.

“For safety, it is indeed necessary, especially in remote areas without lights. Drivers are advised to drive carefully and monitor their distance even with the glow-in-the-dark paint technology,” the user said.

Calls for the expansion of glow-in-the-dark road markings nationwide, particularly in remote interior regions, have resonated among Malaysians who see this development as a positive step towards safer road infrastructure.

“Try it on several roads first, investigate its effectiveness within one month, if positive, expand it nationwide,” one user said.

Nevertheless, some users have raised concerns about the suitability of this initiative, arguing that the existing specifications are sufficient, albeit requiring improved maintenance.

“As far as I know, the use of ‘glow in the dark’ road markings requires significantly higher costs compared to the existing specifications,” he added.