6-6-2024 (SINGAPORE) A new travel trend is taking shape, as an increasing number of young Singaporeans are embarking on road trips to Malaysia, venturing beyond the traditional tourist hotspots and embracing a spirit of adventure. This surge in demand for cross-border exploration has been fueled by a combination of curiosity, wanderlust, and a desire to forge unforgettable memories.
At the forefront of this movement is Lylo, a car rental company that has witnessed a remarkable 40 per cent increase in demand since introducing its cross-border service approximately a year ago. According to Marcus Low, the firm’s head of business, the appeal of road trips lies in the freedom and flexibility they offer.
“The folks with a bit more spare time, typically when they’re on leisure trips rather than work trips, tend to prefer driving,” Low explained. “It allows them to take in the scenery at their own pace, making spontaneous stops along the way with their friends and family.”
Lylo’s clientele primarily consists of young adults in their twenties and thirties, as well as families with children. The number of actively rented vehicles has surged from around 100 to over 300, a testament to the growing popularity of this mode of travel.
Interestingly, the demand for Lylo’s premium chauffeur service, where drivers ferry passengers around Malaysia, has seen a fivefold increase among young families compared to the previous year. “We’re witnessing exceptional demand for this service, primarily during school holidays when families prefer not to drive themselves,” Low remarked.
Another rapidly expanding customer segment comprises young professionals taking advantage of block leave periods. This group now accounts for approximately 40 per cent of Lylo’s customers, up from less than 10 per cent last year.
The spirit of adventure extends beyond car rentals, as even those opting for private bus services are venturing further afield. According to industry insiders, destinations like Penang, Ipoh, and Hat Yai have gained popularity among travellers seeking rich cultural experiences.
“We’re seeing more solo youngsters, Gen Z, and millennial travellers who are eager to explore diverse destinations in Malaysia,” said Yee Hon Ve, director of KKKL Travel & Tours.
WTS Travel, another prominent player in the industry, has also observed a “noticeable shift” in passenger demographics, with a 20 per cent increase in young travellers compared to the previous year. The growing demand has prompted the company to consider expanding its premium bus fleet.
Interestingly, the trend of bus travel to more remote parts of Malaysia is not limited to local residents. KKKL Travel & Tours has witnessed a surge in international visitors from China and India booking bus tickets and departing from Singapore, at least a 10 per cent increase since the announcement of a visa-free scheme last December.
While the influx of customers is undoubtedly good news for bus companies, the industry faces a significant challenge in hiring qualified drivers. “Drivers are plentiful, but good drivers are not easy to find,” Yee lamented, highlighting a “pain point” in an industry that appears to be expanding rapidly.
