He said the mobility of Malaysians is projected to increase more than three times, from 40 million daily trips by car in 2010 to 131 million daily trips in 2030.

Malaysia has already emerged among the top three largest automobile markets in Southeast Asia.

The number of people using and buying cars will keep on increasing but the government still felt the need to promote public transport, Loke said.

“We can’t stop people buying cars if they can afford it. They can still use their cars during their leisure time.

“This does not go against our policy of promoting public transport at all,” he said after opening the Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show 2018 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (Mitec).

Loke also welcomed an initiative by Petronas to introduce an app next year to reward courteous drivers.

“Drivers who get certain marks will be rewarded. They will get rebates to buy car fuel and discounts on toll charges.”

He said such apps and rewards would encourage Malaysians to be better drivers on the road.

“I am willing to work with any parties to push road safety awareness.”