"BALIK KAMPUNG" BY BUS CHEAPER, MORE RELAXING

KUALA LUMPUR, June 16 (Bernama) -- Public transportation remains a popular choice for many city dwellers returning to their hometowns to celebrate Hari Raya Aidiladha tomorrow.

A Bernama survey at the Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) found that people preferred taking the bus back to their hometowns as it was cheaper and more relaxing than driving. 

Sugianti Suwarno, 26, a private sector employee, said that her family of four opted to travel by an express bus to celebrate at her sister-in-law’s house in Larkin, Johor, to avoid the risk of falling asleep at the wheel. 

“I will be celebrating until this Thursday. I chose to take the bus because it’s safer when traveling with young children. 

“We just bought our bus tickets at the kiosk, there were still plenty available, and the prices are the same as before,” she said.

Nor Shakila Tomin, 31, a fast food restaurant worker, said she has been traveling by bus for several years because it is safer and arrives on time.

“I will return to Parit Buntar, Perak, for the celebration. It’s a long journey, so I feel more comfortable taking the bus because I can rest,” she said.

Kindergarten teacher Muhamad Azlan Adnan, 32, said he and his sister decided to take the bus to Georgetown, Penang, to avoid the fatigue of driving in heavy traffic.

“My sister and I once experienced a seven-hour highway congestion during the festive season. We were so exhausted and sore.  So we’re taking the bus instead,” he elaborated. 

Meanwhile, Bernama’s observations at the ticket sales kiosks and display screens at TBS revealed that bus tickets to the East Coast for the morning and afternoon departures are sold out. However, there are still limited tickets available for the night.

-- BERNAMA