“Can Come, But Can’t Go Back?” – Malaysians Slam ‘Begpacker’ Seen at R&R, Urges Authorities to Take Action

Source: World

Foreign backpackers are often criticized in Malaysia for engaging in begging activities to sustain their travels, earning the derogatory term “begpackers.”

Recently, a foreign backpacker was seen at the southbound Ulu Bernam R&R in Selangor, seeking public donations to fund his return home. The incident sparked outrage, with many Malaysians calling on the authorities to take action.

On the social media page “The Pedoq,” images of the backpacker were shared along with a message directed at the authorities: “Greetings, PDRM and PLUS Malaysia Berhad, please pick him up and send him home. Why do we have to bear the cost of his ticket to go back to his hometown?”

The man, who appeared to be asking for help, was sitting at the R&R with a sign in both Bahasa Malaysia and English that read: “Hi, I have been travelling for 9 years. I really miss home. Please help me raise money for a ticket and some food. Thank you.” The sign was accompanied by a donation bowl containing a few RM5 and RM1 notes.

Malaysians expressed their frustration, questioning why a tourist should rely on the generosity of others to fund their travels. They also criticized the lack of stricter regulations on foreign tourists entering the country. Some suggested that tourists should be required to present return tickets, hotel bookings, and an itinerary before being allowed into Malaysia.

“It’s so easy for him to exploit our kindness. Here (in Malaysia), many people have never even flown. He can easily ask for donations to return home. It’s best to blacklist people like this. It’s frustrating to see these ‘white beggars.’ If he can come to Malaysia, why can’t he go back? Malaysia needs to be more like Korea, where travelers must show their return tickets, hotel reservations, and itinerary to enter. If they don’t have that, they shouldn’t be allowed in,” one commenter expressed.

Others noted that the lack of strict border controls in Malaysia allows such incidents to occur. “In other countries, foreign travelers must provide a return ticket, proof of accommodation, a certain amount of money, and a clear itinerary. This should be the standard,” one person argued.