They were designed to be both attractive and functional, with the goal of reducing Malaysia’s electricity bill. These glow-in-the-dark roads promised an innovative way to illuminate streets without relying heavily on conventional lighting.
However, despite their initial appeal, the country’s glow-in-the-dark roads encountered several real-world challenges. Practical issues emerged that complicated their effectiveness and long-term viability, highlighting the gap between concept and everyday use.
https://www.jalopnik.com/2004314/why-malaysia-glow-in-the-dark-roads-failed/