'Balik kampung' can be defined as going back to one's hometown to celebrate a festival or an occasion. It is a unique experience for some of us in Malaysia. This phrase conjures an image of tranquility, green postures and laughter. However, balik kampung can bring adverse effects to the holiday makers.
Have you thought of the horrendous traffic jam? Every federal road, highway is congested with vehicles moving bumper to bumper. In this situation, most of the holiday makers are caught for a few hours. This makes them feel fustrated and irritated.
Apart from that, another effect of balik kampung is the rate of accident will definitely increase in this period. Most of them rush back to their hometown so that they are on time for celebration. They will drive like daredevil and go beyond the speed limit. Some driving recklessly, others overtaking illegally. All these will lead to accidents and fatal sometimes.
Besides that, everytime when one wishes to go back to hometown, it incurs high expenditure. Most of the time, one will not go back empty handed. Some of us will buy food stuff, clothes to our loved ones back in the hometown. During this time, the prices have skyrocketed. Due to the hike in petrol, we have to pay more. It burns a hole in the pocket of all holiday makers.
In contrast, in the city and town, it is deserted. During this period, both city and town are as quiet as graveyard. It is because all the shops are closed and there will be no business. Therefore, businessmen will suffer loss. For example, Jalan Tengku Abdul Rahman in Kuala Lumpur is like a ghost town. Some people would take this opportunity to organise illegal racing at the empty streets.
Lastly, the rate of crime will increase during this period. The thieves and burglars will take this chance to rob the houses as if it is their golden opportunity. Most of the residents in the neighbourhood will have 'balik kampung' and no one will take care of the house.
After this festive...