It’s that time of the year again when everyone starts packing before hitting the road to balik kampung! No matter the festivity, balik kampung is a true Malaysian tradition, where individuals head back to their hometowns for the holidays, or to reconnect with friends and family.
So, in anticipation of the impending Hari Raya celebration this year, we’ve compiled a list of the typical things that only true Malaysians can relate to during balik kampung every year.
Up At Ungodly Hours
Even though it’s still dark outside, you’ve already loaded your things into the boot of your car and are driving down the highway in an attempt to beat the balik kampung traffic, only to get stuck in congestion in the process. During the holiday season in 2022, there were more vehicles than ever on the Peninsula’s major routes, and this year will be no different. You best prepare a “good vibes” playlist and download an audiobook in case you are caught in the balik kampung crawl.
Raya OOTD All The Way
We get it. Festive seasons make you immerse fully in the vibe, and you’ll don the best attire for the day. But seriously, travelling in full festive attire is gonna need lots of work, especially if your journey goes for more than an hour. Nonetheless, Malaysians have mastered the skill of staying trendy in their fits till they arrive at their destinations.
Here’s a tip: Bring along one of those small, handheld garment steamers in case you need to tidy up before arriving at your destination. Also, be mindful of what material you choose to wear since the weather is super hot these days.
Stopping For Some Snacks
The minute you notice the sign, you just can’t wait to jump out! Whether you’ve packed enough food and drinks, it’s always a must to stop at an R&R on the way. After all, who can resist some good ol’ Malaysian food served fresh by the roadside? Anyways, making an R&R pit stop is recommended, especially since you can tapau your favourite Malaysian dishes. It’s also a good time to stretch and refresh after sitting still in the car for some time.
Save Toll & Petrol Money
Whether you balik kampung or not, you automatically save so much on toll and petrol charges. During balik kampung, petrol and toll costs will probably be the biggest money drainers. Although we have little influence over petrol and toll rates, balik kampung has never been better, as the government recently announced that from 19th to 21st April and on the 24th of April, toll charges will be waived. Awesome!
Taking Shortcuts
Malaysians are pros when it comes to taking shortcuts. But balik kampung routes hit differently. While most people prefer using highways to reach their destination faster, some drivers choose to use back roads. This is simply because watching the scenery shift from crowded cityscapes to rural towns and villages, lush greenery, or even sandy beaches, give you a different feel.
Raya Songs All The Way
Everyone is familiar with Sudirman’s classic Raya song, Balik Kampung. And the chorus by itself sends everyone in the car into a frenzy. Still, you can always prepare a playlist of other songs to sing along to on your journey. But it’s okay, no harm singing “oh, oh, oh balik kampung” a thousand times to revel in the Raya mood.
