Extended bicycle trips through the US and Malaysia uncover a shared ethos between a global superpower and a country often overlooked, says Muntasir Mamun
Published : 30 Oct 2024, 09:57 AM
Travelling through Malaysia by bicycle, from Langkawi to Kuala Lumpur, revealed a fascinating perspective on a country often overlooked in comparison with the global superpowers. However, Malaysia’s journey and modern-day society, in many ways, resonate with my cross-country riding experience during my 2012 US trip from Seattle to Washington, DC.
The paths these two nations have taken—marked by diverse migration waves, urbanisation, cultural pluralism, and economic ambition—uncover striking parallels. My journey became not just a ride across miles, but an exploration of the shared ethos that connects these two nations.
Each year, we try to get away for a trip around mid-year, a routine that had almost slipped away this time. Accepting that we might not travel felt too much to bear, and so, we set off to Malaysia with our bicycles. It’s close by, with minimal visa hassles, and remains reasonably affordable. The journey started with a flight to Langkawi, one of Malaysia’s well-developed islands, especially geared toward tourists with its infrastructure, much like Bali in Indonesia, where we cycled a few years ago.
This time, the plan was the reverse journey—from Langkawi to Kuala Lumpur, covering about 550 kilometres in eight days, a leisurely pace with enough time to soak in the sights. Starting the trip meant boarding a ferry from the island to the mainland, an added delight.
A BACKBONE OF MIGRATION AND CULTURAL FUSION
Both Malaysia and the United States are products of migration. Malaysia’s early settlers from China, India, and surrounding Asian regions left indelible cultural marks that shaped its identity. These communities, each with distinct traditions and beliefs, have interwoven over time to create a unique cultural tapestry that, much like America’s, celebrates differences while forging a unified national identity. In both countries, migration was driven by opportunity and necessity—pioneers seeking a better life, just as immigrants in the US journeyed across continents.
Today, Malaysia continues to host millions of migrant workers who contribute to the nation’s growth, a trend reflected in the US, where immigrants have historically played a significant role in building the economy. Along the road, I met many workers from Bangladesh and other foreign countries, who have become a familiar presence in Malaysia’s small towns, much like the immigrant communities that characterise American life. Their presence is a reminder of the opportunities and challenges that migration brings to both countries, where people from all over the world seek new beginnings.
DIVERSITY AS A CORE NATIONAL VALUE
Malaysia, like the US, is a nation that holds diversity at its core. Though Islam is the official religion, Malaysia is home to substantial Buddhist, Hindu, and Christian communities. This vibrant mosaic of beliefs is integral to Malaysia’s national identity and resonates with the pluralism celebrated in American society, where freedom of religion remains a foundational value. Both nations emphasise tolerance and peaceful coexistence, where faith is a unifying thread connecting communities across cultural divides.
During the bicycle ride, we often stopped for water or rest, and it was impossible not to notice the beautiful mosques dotting the landscape—just as churches do throughout the US. These places of worship not only stand as symbols of faith but also reflect Malaysia’s openness and hospitality. People were always willing to help, offering directions or a place to rest, regardless of religious background. The warmth and respect I encountered at these stops underscored Malaysia's commitment to inclusivity, where the shared spirit of humanity bridges differences and fosters connection.
PARALLEL PATHS OF DEVELOPMENT AND MODERNISATION
In Malaysia’s rapid urbanisation and industrial growth, we find reflections of America’s transformation. Cities like Kuala Lumpur are centres of opportunity, drawing people from rural areas and smaller towns—just as urban migration transformed the United States in the 20th century. This rural-to-urban shift brings benefits and challenges in both countries, where balancing modernity and tradition becomes essential. Malaysia’s highways, infrastructure, and development projects, often funded by international partnerships, echo the American story of building modern roads and industries to connect people and facilitate economic growth.
As I cycled through different regions, the coexistence of modern highways with lush rural landscapes was striking. These roads symbolise Malaysia’s balance between rapid development and preservation of its natural heritage. Similar to the US’s scenic routes through towns and countryside, these roads tell a story of resilience, innovation, and the desire to connect every corner of the nation.
ECONOMIC GROWTH, CHALLENGES, AND A DRIVE FOR PROGRESS
Both Malaysia and the United States face the challenges of bridging socioeconomic divides, particularly between urban centres and rural communities. In Malaysia, the growth of the service, technology, and tourism industries has spurred economic growth, much like the US shift toward knowledge-based industries. However, both countries grapple with income inequality, a growing issue in fast-developing societies where urban prosperity often overshadows the struggles of rural areas. Malaysia’s smaller towns maintain a slower pace of life, where the benefits of modernisation sometimes take longer to reach.
As I travelled through these smaller towns, I was reminded of rural America, where resilience and community spirit often take precedence over the relentless drive for economic success. Both countries have also seen debates around equitable development, with grassroots movements advocating for more inclusive policies. In Malaysia, like in the United States, balancing growth with cultural and environmental preservation remains a key challenge for the future.
UNFALTERING PATRIOTISM AND NATIONAL PRIDE
In both Malaysia and the US, flags fly high and proud, symbolising a deep sense of national pride that is visible everywhere—from government buildings to small roadside stalls. The Malaysian flag is ever-present, echoing the patriotic displays seen across the United States. This shared expression of pride reflects a powerful connection to place and identity, transcending economic or social divides.
From a distance, it’s easy to mistake the Malaysian flag for the American one, especially for a first-time cyclist exploring Malaysia. The frequent presence of the flag in Malaysia reminded us of the similar displays of national pride found in the US, creating an unexpected bond between these two diverse nations.
Interestingly, only Bangladeshi workers seemed to recognize and respond to the Bangladeshi flag on our bikes, often waving in a friendly gesture of camaraderie. This felt similar to experiences in the US, where locals are quick to recognise and respond to their own flag but may not easily identify others.
Flags in both nations serve as reminders of the ideals each country strives to uphold—unity, diversity, and progress. This patriotic spirit brings communities together, as people in both Malaysia and the US take pride in the freedoms and opportunities their countries offer.
A SHARED JOURNEY OF RESILIENCE AND ADAPTATION
After eight days, we arrived in Kuala Lumpur with a renewed respect for Malaysia—a country whose story parallels the American journey in remarkable ways. From waves of migration and cultural diversity to economic ambition and social resilience, both nations have forged unique paths that echo each other’s values. Our journey through Malaysia unveiled a place where modernity meets tradition, where diversity is celebrated as a strength, and where ambition drives growth—a sentiment that feels both deeply American and uniquely Malaysian.
Travelling by bicycle, the slowest form of transport offers an extraordinary opportunity to truly immerse oneself in a place. The gradual shift in landscapes allows us to absorb every detail, revealing nuances that faster travel would miss. Each stop uncovers stories, and the steady pace of cycling makes you a part of them. We felt that both in Malaysia and the US, these parallels underscore a shared human experience that transcends borders. Through these explorations, we found not only the beauty of Malaysia but also a common narrative of resilience, unity, and the pursuit of a brighter future.
And with heartfelt gratitude, we say 'Terima Kasih' to Malaysia for embracing hundreds of thousands of our countrymen, allowing them to call this beautiful land their home.