And although more bicycle lanes have been built over the years, one can still see cars parked on these blue lanes, in blatant disregard of traffic regulations and the welfare of cyclists.
However, this current state of affairs hasn’t deterred Gurdev Singh, 55, and Jack Chan, 56, from exploring the country on their bikes.
The duo met three years ago on Facebook and are currently on a mission to cycle to every gurdwara in the country over a span of 12 months. Each 100km trip both ways, will take place over weekends.
“It was an inner calling, so I decided to follow my inner voice. When I spoke to Jack Chan about it, he agreed to start and finish this journey with me. We’ve been cycling together for a while now, so we thought that would be a meaningful project to undertake,” Gurdev explained.
The photojournalist started cycling five years ago to improve his health and has since lost 10kg.
Chan, who used to work in IT, bought his bike about eight years ago as a means to relive his childhood memories. “I used to cycle with my mum’s bike, which she used to transport latex collected from rubber trees,” he reminisced.
Since kicking off the project in May, the duo has been on three trips – Tampin to Melaka; Broga to Mantin; Port Dickson to Cape Rachado.
Gurdev told FMT that he would ask the priests at each gurdwara they cycled to, two important questions: “Why is the Punjabi language important” and “What can be done to attract the younger generation to the temples?”
The duo said they also interviewed people they met along the way, hoping that their stories would be inspirational. “We hope to promote the muhibbah spirit through these videos and stories,” said Chan, adding that they also plan to raise awareness for worthy causes.
Chan navigates, while Gurdev documents their journey. “Once in a while he’ll take me down the wrong route,” said Gurdev, good-naturedly. “But that’s when the adventure starts!” joked Chan.
One of their more memorable journeys was during Hari Raya in Melaka. Ravenous, the two were on the lookout for a stall selling rendang. However, being Hari Raya, all shops were closed.
“Then, Jack spotted a restaurant and we were so happy,” Gurdev said.
Chan added, laughing: “There were tables with food outside, and so we asked if we could order, but everyone just looked at us quizzically. We then realised that it was someone’s house and that they were having a Hari Raya gathering!”
The two quickly apologised, and got ready to leave but the host insisted they join his family for the meal. “He made us feel so welcomed; we were extremely touched that they showed so much love and compassion to total strangers. Before we left, his entire family shook hands with us,” said Gurdev.
It goes without saying that biking has its fair share of challenges. Besides the risk that comes with cycling on roads with heavy traffic, cyclists also have to look out for packs of wild dogs.
“And even with Google Street View and various other route-planning apps, we do get lost sometimes,” shared Chan.
In addition, they said it was important to carry basic tools and know how to perform minor repairs yourself. “We also leave our valuables at home, and remind each other to stay hydrated and to not overexert ourselves,” said Gurdev.
And while cautious when exploring new routes, the duo said that most people they’ve met on their journeys have been friendly. “Some even paid for our meals,” he shared.
Although some people think it’s crazy to cycle long distances in hot and humid weather, the pair beg to differ.
“Cycling keeps you fit and healthy, and it’s a great low-impact sport,” said Chan, adding that the authorities should build a network of connected cycling lanes, similar to that of other countries in the region.
“At the end of the day, we just want to cycle, and inspire and empower everyone we meet along the journey,” said Gurdev.
“Nobody knows what tomorrow will bring, so we should seize the day,” added Chan.
And if you can’t already tell, their shared motto is, “Have bicycles, will cycle!”
Follow Gurdev and Chan’s cycling adventures on their website, Facebook, as well as YouTube channel.