28-05-2025
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
P-hailing rider braves rain, heat to make ends meet
KUALA LUMPUR: With only a Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) qualification, Amirul Asyhwad knows his job options are limited.
"I can't afford to be picky. Right now, I'm just doing what I can to earn a living, for my wife," said the 29-year-old.
Amirul has worn many hats, from serving as a prison warden for three years to trying his hand at acting.
These days, he works full-time as a p-hailing rider, zipping through the city's streets to make ends meet.
Recently, Amirul took to TikTok to share a raw, emotional moment, questioning whether he was a failure for not having a fixed income and relying partly on his wife for support.
To his surprise, the video went viral, garnering over 1.1 million views and an outpouring of support.
Viewers praised Amirul for his honesty and for choosing to earn a living through honest means.
"It was raining, I had just finished work and my clothes were soaked. I was feeling down and recorded a short video for myself. I never expected it to blow up.
"Alhamdulillah, many Malaysians offered words of encouragement, and some even reached out with job opportunities. I truly appreciate their kindness," he said when contacted.
Married for eight months, Amirul admits his earnings as a rider are inconsistent. Yet, his wife's unwavering support keeps him going.
"She never complains about what I do, as long as it's halal," he said.
"I always remind myself — I do this to make life easier for her and to meet our monthly needs. I can go without, but I won't let her suffer."
While most treat him respectfully, he recalls one disheartening encounter at a luxury home: "It was clear they thought I was a nobody, but I didn't let it affect me. I'm here to survive, not impress."
His job has taught him resilience and life lessons, but Amirul has bigger plans.
He hopes to one day open a cafe, a dream he believes has potential, especially with the younger crowd's love for such spaces.
"But I need capital and for now, I'm saving up. Insya-Allah, if the opportunity comes, I'll open a cafe with some friends as partners," said Amirul, who hails from Jerteh, Terengganu.
