Saiful Zulkifli, 37, bicycle consultant
He started cycle-commuting to work six years ago when he joined an IT company in Section 13, Shah Alam. He cycled from and back to his home in Bandar Puncak Alam, Selangor, clocking up a total of 70km every day.
“I saved up to RM600-RM700 monthly (in petrol, car maintenance and tolls) just by commuting to work. Plus I got to enjoy the fresh air in the morning and the fun!” he enthused.
Saiful has since opened his own bicycle workshop, Toptube, which offers door-to-door bike pick-up, service, sales and accessories, at Bandar Puncak Alam.
He advised, “Don’t wear or carry any fancy bags or belongings that will only attract those with bad intentions. I use a normal dull-coloured backpack which can safely keep my things. And always be alert and aware of your surroundings.”
In the days when he cycled to work, he would bring his office clothes in his backpack.
“When I arrived at the office, I would just shower and change,” he recalled.
To safeguard against unexpected things like bad weather or punctures, he would carry emergency tools in his backpack, including a spare tube, mini hand pump, mini multi-tools, and also a riding raincoat.
“The most important facilities to encourage more cyclists to commute to work are dedicated bike lanes and safe bike parking facilities in brightly lit areas,” said Saiful.
“It’s great seeing cycling activities like Ride for Malaysia, and even the Car Free Day in KL and Shah Alam, which encourage people to cycle,” he added.