Cover image via Universiti Malaysia Perlis (Facebook)
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A Malaysian student has won praise for his determination to travel eight hours by motorcycle — carrying only a backpack and a bucket of bathroom essentials — to attend his first day at university
Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP) shared his story on Facebook, commending his perseverance and officially welcoming him to campus.
Travelling from Sepang, Selangor to Arau, Perlis, Muhammad Zahirul Hakim Bin Zali embarked on the solo journey, determined not to let distance or costs stop him from pursuing his studies.
According to the university, Zahirul is pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering Technology (Robotics and Automation Technology) at its Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Technology.
Zahirul joked that the PLUS Highway has felt like a "second home" since his diploma days
In the past, he relied on buses or ETS trains, but with fares reaching up to RM100 one-way, he had to consider other options.
With his motorcycle, he spends only about RM30 per trip.
As the eldest of six siblings, Zahirul said he did not want to burden his parents, who also have to provide for his younger siblings.
The student admitted that his father was initially reluctant to let him ride such a long distance on his own
However, Zahirul said he has proven himself to be a responsible rider: no speeding, no reckless behaviour, and always prioritising the safety of himself and other road users.
He arrived safely at UniMAP in time for registration day on Saturday, 27 September, where he was greeted warmly by faculty members and was also given a small gift by Vice Chancellor Datuk Prof Ts Dr Zaliman Sauli to mark the start of his academic journey.
"Welcome to UniMAP, Zahirul. Your story is an inspiration to us all — a reminder of sacrifice, family love, and the courage of a young man chasing his dreams," the university shared.
