For many Malaysian university students, getting to campus involves a daily decision: should they drive or rely on public transportation?
At first glance, the answer might appear straightforward. Public transportation can be cheaper, while driving offers greater convenience and flexibility.
However, the reality is often more complicated.
Students who drive must consider several expenses, including petrol, tolls, parking fees, vehicle maintenance and insurance.
Although some of these expenses are not paid daily, they still contribute to the overall cost of owning and operating a vehicle.
For example, a hypothetical student who spends RM12 on petrol, RM6 on tolls and RM5 on parking would incur RM23 in daily commuting expenses. Over 20 university days, that amounts to RM460.
Public transportation may offer a more affordable alternative, particularly where student discounts or travel passes are available.
Nevertheless, accessibility remains an important consideration.
Not every student lives within walking distance of a railway station or convenient bus route. Some may need to arrange additional transportation to reach the nearest station, increasing both travel time and expenses.
Long waiting times, multiple transfers and limited connections can also make public transport less practical for students with demanding schedules.
As discussions surrounding Budget 2027 continue, transportation affordability deserves attention.
Potential priorities could include improving first-mile and last-mile connectivity, strengthening bus services near educational institutions and maintaining accessible student transport schemes.
Reliable public transportation can benefit more than university students. It can also help working adults, families and communities that depend on affordable mobility.
At the same time, policies should recognise that private vehicles remain necessary for some individuals, particularly in areas where public transport coverage is limited.
The objective should not simply be to encourage everyone to stop driving.
Instead, it should be to ensure that Malaysians have realistic and affordable transportation choices.
For students, the cost of commuting is not merely a transportation issue. It directly affects the amount of money available for food, educational materials and savings.
Ultimately, an effective transportation system should make travelling to education and employment less financially burdensome.
Budget 2027 offers an opportunity to consider how everyday mobility can become more affordable, accessible and convenient.
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