A Warm Beginning in Malaysia: Family, Encounters, and the Open Road
Hello from Malaysia, on November 19th.
Today was the day I finally had to leave the house where I was warmly welcomed. Staying with Mr. Suffian and his family was so comfortable that I could have stayed much longer. But as a traveler, I must keep moving forward.
Just as I was preparing to leave, a kind man who had invited me to join his family the day before asked me to share breakfast with them.
Breakfast the Traditional Way
It had been a long time since I ate with my hands, following the local custom. For me, this style of eating felt nostalgic, almost like reconnecting with something I had missed.
I believe deeply that when we travel, it’s important to adapt to the local way of life, not to resist it. By doing so, we come closer to understanding the heart of the people. Sharing that breakfast reminded me how food is more than just nourishment—it is connection.
During our conversation, this man, who is 42 years old and works on a farm while supporting his family, said something that struck me deeply:
“My salary is not high, but I have time with my family, and my family is happy. We smile every day—and that is enough.”
These words were not spoken with hesitation, but with a natural honesty that only comes from lived experience. In Japan, many books and debates ask, What is happiness? But here, in a simple breakfast shared on the floor of a Malaysian home, I felt I had heard one of the most profound answers.
Unexpected Encounters on the Road
After breakfast, I set off again. Just as I was about to leave, I came across a group of four cyclists from Singapore who were riding from George Town to Alor Setar. Their bicycles were colorful and creative—so unique that I felt inspired to design one myself someday.
Though it was only a brief meeting, we promised to see each other again when I arrive in Singapore.
Soon after, I unexpectedly met Suffian once more. Life on the road is full of coincidences like this, and each one feels like a gentle reminder of the bonds formed in short times.
I thanked him again for his kindness and promised that after my journey, I would return. My start in Malaysia already felt like a blessing.
Cycling Along the Coast
Today’s route was simple: riding straight along the coastal road. I plan to continue following the coast until Kuala Lumpur, passing smaller towns instead of large cities like Ipoh.
There are two reasons for this choice. First, Malaysia’s history along the sea—shaped by the great age of exploration—still lingers in its coastal towns. I want to experience that culture. Second, camping is easier by the sea, and that freedom calls to me.
Lunch and Local Hospitality
For lunch, I returned to the same small place where I had drunk fresh Nira yesterday. This time, I ordered a dish of thin noodles topped with a fried egg and a glass of “Oren,” freshly squeezed orange juice.
Both were delicious. One thing I love about Malaysia is how generously drinks are served—cups filled to the brim, a small kindness that makes you feel welcome.
Later, someone waved to me as I cycled past. I stopped and spoke with them, and they explained that their culture of welcoming travelers is rooted in Islam.
In Japan, Islam often carries negative stereotypes. But what I am experiencing here is the opposite: generosity, warmth, and hospitality. In their faith, helping travelers is a good deed, and this has shaped a culture where kindness to strangers is natural.
I realized again that I know so little about religion. Traveling will be my classroom, and I will continue to learn as I move forward.
A Beachside Encounter
After three hours of riding, I reached a beach near my destination. While resting, a young man told me I could camp there for the night.
As I unpacked my luggage, I found something I thought I had lost—a small toy I had been given by a six-year-old girl during my travels. It made me smile. This little companion will continue to travel the world with me.
Nearby, a stall was selling spiral-cut fried potatoes, something I had never seen here before. On a quiet beach where nothing else was available, even this simple food felt like a gift.
The beach itself was almost empty—like a private retreat, with only the sound of the waves and the occasional sight of large lizards. Encounters with unfamiliar creatures are also part of the joy of traveling.
A Final Gift for the Day
As I was about to pitch my tent, a family having a picnic nearby handed me an onigiri. It was slightly spicy, and just the right flavor to end the day.
From morning until evening, I had been met with kindness, generosity, and unexpected encounters. I felt grateful for every moment.
When I first entered Malaysia, I wondered how things would unfold. But now, I feel certain—it will be a journey filled with joy, learning, and human connection.
