As Raya approaches, Malaysians nationwide are making plans to ‘balik kampung’ or return to their hometowns to celebrate with family and loved ones.
However, what is intended to be a joyful homecoming can sometimes turn into an arduous journey, as highlighted by a recent viral story shared on social media.
TikTok user Sue_haniey’s photo slides, detailing her staggering 23-hour jam experience while travelling back to her hometown, have sparked a heated discussion among Malaysians.
Setting off alone from Puchong in Selangor on a morning last year, she didn’t reach her home in Kelantan until the next morning.
“I left home at 6 in the morning and reached my home in Kelantan at 5 am.” she wrote in the caption.
Sue_haniey’s journey embarked upon on last year’s (2023) Raya’s eve, was fraught with challenges.
She described enduring the sweltering heat, debilitating migraines, and the anxiety of a nearly empty fuel tank, compounded by the relentless traffic jams that plagued her route.
Yet, it was a journey she would never forget, especially when help came in an unexpected form—a roadside vendor selling barrels of fuel for 50 Ringgit, a steep price but a lifeline that allowed her to continue her journey home until she reached a petrol station at Gua Musang.
This tale of perseverance and unexpected hurdles has prompted many Malaysians to reconsider their travel plans for the festive season.
The video quickly resonated with many as soon as it was posted, amassing 1.4 million views, 78.3k likes and eliciting more than 2700 comments in just two days. Watch it here.
Many were amazed by the perseverance of the woman.
“Weiii almost 24 hours!!!!! Feel grateful for just celebrating Raya in Penang. Stay strong to everyone going back to celebrate Raya.”
Some think luckily there was someone selling petrol along the way.
“It’s great that there was someone selling petrol 👍 very helpful.”
A netizen said if he needs to travel 23 hours just to reach his hometown he would rather stay in KL for Raya as he cannot bear the jam.
“23 hours, huh… It’s okay… I’ll just celebrate Raya in KL… Can’t bear it.”
However, someone pointed out that those who are willing to stand for the jam are mostly doing it for their parents.
How long have you been stuck in traffic on the road for the longest time during the festive season? Share with us in the comment section!
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