Sabahan touched by hospitality of Sarawakians
MIRI: Sabahan motorcyclist Rahim Yusof, who is on a solo ride across Sabah and Sarawak, has been touched by the hospitality of Sarawakians.
While on his ‘Jalur Gemilang Adventure', which began in his hometown of Sandakan on Aug 1, Rahim has found Sarawakians to be courteous and accepting.
“During my journey in Sarawak, I did not even get the chance to open up my tent as everything, including my meals, was prepared by all the people of Sarawak. During my first expedition in Sabah last year, I had to sleep in mosques, hospitals and any 24-hour places to rest and sleep. For this I am very thankful,” he said when met here yesterday.
“Each place has its own uniqueness and the people have touched my heart so much, and this is what I love most about Malaysia. Throughout this journey, I've gotten to see the longhouses and travelled all the way to Sematan, and the people's friendliness and cooperation never ceased to amaze me.”
The 67-year-old, who rides a five-year-old Malaysian-made Demak 90cc motorcycle, said he will have much to share about his adventures.
“I will not forget the memories that I have collected throughout my journey in Sarawak – the excellent service, the beautiful culture and ethnic groups, how much I feel welcome here. And I am truly sad to leave Sarawak,” said army veteran, who served from 1973 to 1988.
“The beauty of this place is something that we need to take care of and for example, I was invited by the JKKK (village security and development committee) of Kampung Iran in Niah here for a short while, and I got to see the character of the village and it's really intriguing.”
For next year's expedition, he hopes to ride around the peninsula.
Rahim will continue his journey back to Sabah today (Thursday).