I had the privilege of experiencing the Setiawangsa Lembah Pantai Expressway (SPE) and it was a mesmerizing experience. The road not only connects two points, but also creates a magical spell, turning the ordinary into the extraordinary. It was like stepping through a mystical portal and the journey was simply magical. I must say that the newly opened expressway truly feels like pure magic.
A modern-day “Jambatan Emas Gunung Ledang Melaka”
The expressway’s allure draws parallels with the mythical “Jambatan Emas Gunung Ledang Melaka.” Just as Puteri Gunung Ledang required the construction of a golden bridge as one of the conditions for her hand in marriage to Sultan Mahmud, from Kesultanan Melaka, the Setiawangsa-Pantai Expressway emerges as a modern fulfillment of that enchanting requirement. The Expressway is a modern marvel that connects Setiawangsa to Kerinchi. It stands as a symbol of progress and connectivity, much like the mystical bridge in the legend of Puteri Gunung Ledang and the Sultan of Melaka. This bridge of modern dreams eases commutes and paves the way for communities, making it more than just an engineering feat.
Exclusive Toll Exemption until December 2
According to Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, who officiated the highway’s official launch, toll charges at the three toll plazas — namely Chan Sow Lin, Ampang, and Setiawangsa — situated on the stretch, will be exempted until Dec 2. This unprecedented move adds an extra layer of enchantment to the expressway experience, allowing Setiawangsa residents to embark on a toll-free route for the initial month.
My Expressway Journey: Convenience and Cost
The story of the SPE is fascinating, and my experience with this modern marvel yesterday has been a combination of joy and financial considerations. Although it provides great convenience for reaching my office in Kerinchi, the expenses have become a factor to consider. If I choose to use the SPE for my round-trip journey, the toll expenses are doubled, amounting to RM 21.00.
While the expressway offers a convenient link between Setiawangsa and Kerinchi, it’s essential to consider the financial impact on daily commuting budgets.
Enhanced Journeys
As I drive along the expressway, the experience is truly magical. The rhythmic hum of my tires on the smooth asphalt and the breathtaking views along the way make it better. Each moment transforms the ordinary into something truly extraordinary. I was driving through Datum Jelatek, My Town Ikea Cheras, passing through Midvalley and I feel grateful to be able to experience it firsthand yesterday.
After using the SPE Expressway, I have had a mixed experience. On one hand, it is very convenient to reach my office in Kerinchi quickly. On the other hand, the toll expenses have to be taken into account. While the time-saving benefits of using the expressway are undeniable, I have to balance convenience and cost. Every journey comes with its own set of trade-offs.
