Written by: Associate Professor Ir Dr Mohd Danial Ibrahim
Edited by: Ahmad Junaidi Ahmad Hadzmy
Picture this: 10,908 kilometers of open road, traversing the heart of Indochina over 23 unforgettable days. Our epic adventure began in the bustling streets of Kuala Lumpur, where the rumble of our bikes marked the start of an ambitious quest. We rode north, embracing the thrill of the Mae Hong Son Loop in Thailand, famously known as the Thousands Corner, with its dizzying 4,088 curves that tested our mettle and brought out the adventurers in us.
Laos greeted us next, its serene landscapes offering a stark contrast to the bustling streets of Thailand. And then, China—where we marveled at the sheer speed and efficiency of the latest bullet train to Kunming, a testament to modern engineering. It wasn’t just about the ride; it was about discovering new routes, tasting local delicacies, and immersing ourselves in the rich tapestry of cultures that make up this fascinating region.
As we looped back south, from China through Laos and into Cambodia, each mile etched stories of camaraderie and resilience. We savored the exotic flavors of local fruits and delicacies, visited historical marvels like Angkor Wat and Ayutthaya, and met tribes that time seemed to have forgotten, like the long-neck tribes of Thailand.
Along the way, we faced challenges that tested our mental and physical limits. The road conditions often reminded us of the privilege of riding on Malaysia’s smoother tarmacs. But every obstacle was a lesson, a reminder of the spirit of adventure that brought us together. The occasional mechanical failures became opportunities to put our engineering skills to the test, often with the help of locals and fellow riders from across the globe.
In Thailand, we witnessed the renewable energy marvel of Nakhon Ratchasima’s dam, a symbol of the future we aspire to. Despite our best efforts, time constraints meant we had to pass up on potential collaborations with the EGAT Renewable Energy Park. Still, the spirit of learning and exploration was ever-present.
The friendships we forged with riders from the Netherlands, China, Korea, Australia, Singapore, and fellow Malaysians enriched our journey. Their stories, their tips, and their shared experiences added layers of meaning to our adventure. The warmth we received when fellow riders spotted our Malaysian plates was heartwarming and reaffirmed the universal language of bikers’ solidarity.
Yet, the ride was not without its somber moments. The stark reminder of road safety came when we witnessed a tragic accident in Laos at dusk, a silent pledge to avoid riding in the dark ever again.
Through it all, the Indochina Ride 2024 was a journey of a lifetime—an adventure that not only pushed our limits but also deepened our appreciation for the diverse cultures and landscapes of our neighboring countries. It’s an experience we yearn to repeat, hopefully with the backing to forge deeper connections and partnerships. Until then, the roads we’ve traveled and the memories we’ve made will continue to inspire us.
