24-1-2024 (CALIFORNIA) A video capturing the deplorable conditions of a Los Angeles Metro station has gained significant attention on social media, leading Malaysians to contemplate the state of public transportation around the world. The 25-second clip, shared by Malaysian TikTok user @hamalsiren on January 21, provides a glimpse into the challenges faced by commuters in an underground LA Metro station, highlighting issues of cleanliness, homelessness, and the overall state of the public transport infrastructure.
The video reveals a man vomiting near a bench cluttered with clothing, believed to belong to homeless individuals. As @hamalsiren boards the train, he observes many commuters occupying more than one seat, resulting in an unpleasant odor within the coach. In the video’s caption, @hamalsiren notes, “The coach is smelly due to homeless people sleeping here.” The video has now garnered over 400,000 views.
@hamalsiren, the Malaysian TikTok user, provided some tips and advice for those who wish to experience the LA Metro themselves. He mentioned that the incident occurred on a Sunday at around 6:55 am at the Westlake/MacArthur Park metro station. He also disclosed that most of the homeless population sleep in the train, indicating a lack of alternative options for them. Hamal advised avoiding commuting in the early morning when homeless individuals are still using the area as part of their shelter. He suggested opting for the metro’s daily card instead of buying a single journey coin and considering traveling with a companion if one is afraid to travel alone.
The stark contrast between the conditions depicted in the LA Metro video and the well-maintained local Light Rapid Transit (LRT) and Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) lines in Malaysia, operated by Prasarana, has prompted many Malaysians to express gratitude for the cleanliness and efficiency of their own train services. Netizens commented on the stark differences, with one individual remarking, “Trains in Malaysia are much better.” Another supportive netizen stated, “Anyone who claimed that Malaysia’s train/public transport system is subpar should reconsider their words after witnessing this monstrosity.”
The video has sparked a discussion among Malaysians about the state of public transportation infrastructure and the importance of maintaining clean and efficient systems. It serves as a reminder of the efforts made in Malaysia to provide reliable and well-maintained train services and highlights the need for continued investment in public transport to ensure the comfort and safety of commuters.
@hamalsiren POV as a marhaen traveler ke Los Angeles naik Train/subway #LA #losangeles #POV #fyp ♬ original sound – Hamal Siren
