'Abe Pajerolife' explores Peninsular Malaysia in old car
Using a 1999 Mitsubishi Pajero he purchased for RM5,000 in 2020, Muhammad Harith Ghazali, 32, gradually modified the SUV during the pandemic into a "mobile home”, complete with a sleeping area, kitchen, storage space and even a shower.
KUALA LUMPUR - A vehicle that is over 20 years old may be considered unworthy for long trips but for a young man from Kota Bharu, Kelantan, it became a loyal companion throughout his 26-day solo journey around Peninsular Malaysia in October last year.
Using a 1999 Mitsubishi Pajero he purchased for RM5,000 in 2020, Muhammad Harith Ghazali, 32, gradually modified the sport utility vehicle (SUV) during the pandemic into a "mobile home”, complete with a sleeping area, kitchen, storage space and even a shower.
Better known as Abe Pajerolife among his TikTok followers, Muhammad Harith said the idea for his road trip emerged during the Movement Control Order period when his desire to explore the outside world grew stronger, but financial constraints pushed him to think creatively.
"I’ve always loved travelling, so I needed a way to do it without spending a lot. At the same time, I wanted to break away from my daily routine and explore new things,” he told Bernama.
He said the vehicle modifications were done over four years, inspired by YouTube content from travellers abroad who converted their vehicles into mobile homes.
Muhammad Harith said he had spent nearly RM40,000 to fully equip his Pajero for long-distance travel. The sum included repainting, engine repairs and interior modifications to ensure his mobile home functioned properly.
"Only after that did I feel confident enough to travel around the entire Peninsular Malaysia. I started (my journey) in Perlis and made my way south to Johor, which was my last destination before returning to Kelantan,” he said, adding his vehicle did not encounter any major issue.
Although the vehicle is fitted with a gas stove and basic amenities, the Universiti Malaysia Sarawak graduate said he preferred dining at local eateries as a way to experience the food and culture of each state.
"I love eating local food because it helps me understand the culture. Every state has its own unique flavours,” he added.
Besides discovering new places, Muhammad Harith viewed his trip around the peninsula as an opportunity for self-reflection, using the alone time to better understand his strengths and weaknesses.
His entire journey cost around RM4,000, covering fuel, food, daily expenses and campsite fees.
Sharing more about the experience, Muhammad Harith, who is self-employed, said one of the biggest challenges of being ‘Abe Pajerolife’ was making sure he arrived at each destination before 6 pm, as he is not comfortable driving at night.
"Driving alone makes one feel drowsy easily. Since I had experienced microsleep previously, I didn’t want to take any risk (during the trip). So, I would set off after dawn and aim to arrive (at my destination for the day) by evening,” he said.
An avid camper, especially around Malaysia’s east coast area, Muhammad Harith said during his journey, he also faced other challenges such as running out of electricity - leaving him to sleep in the heat - as well as contending with eerie disturbances in remote areas.
For those considering similar expeditions, he offers this advice: "Start by building strong mental resilience because journeys like these are anything but easy, especially when you're doing it alone.” - BERNAMA
Download Sinar Daily application.Click Here!
