HPB Voices Reloaded

By Dr Veronica Tay

Singaporeans love to go for driving holidays to West Malaysia. Driving gives you freedom to go where you want when you want, but it has disadvantages too; expense, and sometimes having to drive when the public transport is way more convenient.

There should be no problem driving in Malaysia. If you’re an experienced, confident driver and are willing to adapt to a foreign country’s driving habits, then you’ll probably enjoy the freedom of driving in Malaysia.
Driving a car from Singapore to Malaysia is relatively uncomplicated, although tolls are charged for both crossing and (for the Second Link) the adjoining expressway. Do be sure to change some ringgit before crossing, as Singapore dollars are accepted only at the unfavorable rate of 1:1. Another alternative is to get their ‘Touch N Go’ cashcard and you can breeze through their toll booths.

During the 80’s and 90’s when both my sons were young, we used to drive to Malaysia twice a year during the school holidays by ourselves. Then it was less dangerous to drive ‘alone.’ Nowadays, without the boys who are now adults my husband and I join a group for convoy driving to Malaysia. Automobile Association (AA), Nissan, Madza all have organised convoy driving holidays. The group that I join is Footworks (subsidiary of Spring Travel). They organise advance driving courses, escorted group self drive holidays, 4 x 4 off-road excursion (P Malaysia & S Thailand), SUV cross-country day tours etc.

We find such convoy driving holiday more fun as you can mix around and make friends especially during the meals and tours. You also can wander off on your own during ‘free and easy’ time. Hotels, some meals and tours are usually organised for you.

We enjoyed convoy driving so much that we have gone for 2 drive away holidays this year with Footworks to Penang and Cameron Highlands & Port Dickson. We missed the driveaway to Pangkor Island on Nov 18 as my husband was away. We are keeping 8 – 12 March 2008 for the “Visit Terengganu Year 2008” We will be traversing the giant Titiwangsa Range from Singapore up to the Cameron Highlands, all the way across the mountain to the timber town of Gua Musang and beyond through the Kenyir Lakes and then to ole old Kuala Terengganu before kicking our driving boots off to relax at the wonderful resort of Awana Kijal.
On such holidays you do not have to worry much as much of the driving is on the highways and when on the small roads we are following one another.

If you are interested to see what Footworks offer, you can put yourself on their mailing list by emailing to them at "FootWorks" <niknat@singnet.com.sg>

Here are some tips on driving in Malaysia.

1. Beware of speed traps especially in Johore. When you clear one, be careful, there may be another one a few kilometers ahead.
2. No need to store too much food or snacks as food is plentiful at the Rest & Recreation (R & R) stops – you need to go toilet anyway.
3. Take turns driving with someone. Make sure that you have another safe driver for times when you need a break. You can sleep while someone else drives for a while and then switch back and forth when a rest is needed.IMPORTANT: In recent years, there have been an increase in cases of car mugging so do take the following precautions.
4. Don’t stop if a passing motorist tells you that something is wrong with your vehicle or if someone bumps you from behind. Pull into the nearest service station or well-lit public area. Call the police.
5. At stoplights, leave plenty of room between your vehicle and the one in front of you in case you must pull away quickly. Always keep doors locked and windows rolled up when driving or when parked. Keep valuables in the trunk or in the locked glove compartment.
6. Learn emergency vehicles’ signals. Police lights are red and blue. Do not stop for flashing white headlights alone. Do not resist in the rare event that a stranger demands your valuables. Your well-being is more important than your belongings.
7. Don’t pick up hitchhikers under any circumstances. Always be aware of the pedestrian traffic around your vehicle.
8. Always park in a well-lit area. Have car keys in hand and check in and around the car before entering.
9. Don’t take shortcuts to save time or exit expressways prematurely to save tolls. Tolls are a nominal charge, change is available at many booths, and your safety is most important.
10. If your car malfunctions on a major thoroughfare, lock the doors, turn on the hazard lights and wait for the police to arrive. If someone offers help, have them call the police. If you are on convoy driving, call your marshal for assistance.
11. Latest circulating on internet - BEWARE OF PAPER AT THE BACK GLASS OF YOUR VEHICLE. NEW WAY TO DO CAR JACKING (NOT A JOKE!!!)

You walk across the parking lot, unlock your car and get inside. You start the engine and shift into Reverse. When you look into the rearview mirror to back out of your parking space, you notice a piece of paper stuck to the middle of the rear window. So, you shift into Park, unlock your doors, and jump out of your car to remove that paper (or whatever it is) that is obstructing your view. When you reach the back of your car, the car Jacker appears out of nowhere, jumps into your car and take off. They practically mow you down as they speed off in your car - which most likely has been 'booked' by a syndicate targeting your car type and model.

And guess what, ladies? I bet your purse is still in the car. So now the carjacker has your car, your home address, your money and your keys. Your home and your whole identity are now compromised!

BEWARE OF THIS NEW SCHEME THAT IS NOW BEING USED.

If you see a piece of paper stuck to your back window, just drive away. Remove the paper later.

Convoy driving