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Research-backed tips for calmer, safer journey this Raya
EVERY year, millions of Malaysians begin their balik kampung journeys ahead of Hari Raya. Highways fill with vehicles as families travel across states to reunite with loved ones.
While the tradition is widely cherished, the journey itself can be demanding. Long traffic jams, slow-moving vehicles and unpredictable road conditions can quickly turn a festive trip into a stressful experience.
Academic research has increasingly examined how traffic congestion affects driver behaviour and mental well-being. Studies in transportation psychology suggest prolonged exposure to heavy traffic increases cognitive workload, forcing drivers to constantly monitor speed, distance and surrounding vehicles while dealing with delays and time pressure.
Research published in the International Journal of Automotive Technology notes stressful driving conditions often arise from congestion, poor weather visibility and unpredictable behaviour from other motorists. These factors increase mental strain and can lead to fatigue, frustration and reduced attention behind the wheel.
This becomes especially relevant during festive travel periods such as Hari Raya when highways are significantly more crowded.
Physical impacts
Traffic stress is not only psychological. It also produces physical reactions.
A study in the journal Transportation Research Part F: Traffic Psychology and Behaviour finds stressful traffic environments can trigger physiological responses such as elevated heart rate and increased skin conductance.
These reactions occur when the body activates its stress response while dealing with demanding situations such as dense traffic or unpredictable driving behaviour.
Even when drivers remain seated in their vehicles, the body behaves as if it is preparing for action. Over long journeys, this constant activation can leave drivers mentally and physically drained.
Long-distance festive travel further compounds the issue as motorists may remain on the road for several hours at a time.
Why balik kampung journeys feel longer
Beyond the physical demands of driving, the cultural importance of balik kampung also adds emotional pressure. Many travellers hope to reach their hometown in time for family gatherings, prayers and festive meals.
Research published in the Asian Journal of Tourism Research describes balik kampung as a deeply embedded Malaysian tradition that reinforces family bonds and a sense of belonging tied to one’s hometown.
Because the journey carries strong emotional significance, delays or difficult traffic conditions can feel far more frustrating than ordinary daily commutes.
Managing expectations before drive
One of the most effective ways to reduce stress begins before the journey even starts.
Driver behaviour studies consistently highlight perceived time pressure as a major contributor to road frustration. When motorists feel rushed, they are more likely to react emotionally to congestion or aggressive driving.
Planning extra travel time, checking traffic updates and accepting that delays are part of Raya travel can significantly reduce tension. Drivers who begin their journey with flexible expectations are less likely to become frustrated when encountering long toll queues or slow-moving traffic.
Controlled breathing helps calm mind
Psychological techniques can also help drivers manage stress during traffic congestion.
Research presented at the International Conference on Interdisciplinary Science highlights the role of controlled breathing in regulating emotional responses while driving. Slow breathing can help stabilise heart rate and reduce tension.
A simple method involves inhaling slowly, holding the breath briefly and then exhaling for a longer period. Even short breathing exercises during stop-and-go traffic can help drivers regain focus.
Taking breaks reduces fatigue
Fatigue and stress often develop together during long journeys.
Road safety research examining traffic patterns in Selangor shows congestion and peak-hour traffic conditions are linked to higher crash risks. Heavy traffic increases driver workload and raises the likelihood of mistakes, particularly when motorists are already tired.
Taking regular rest stops can help prevent fatigue from building up. Short breaks allow drivers to stretch, hydrate and mentally reset before continuing the journey.
Practising mindful driving
Another strategy highlighted in driver psychology research is mindful driving.
Mindful driving encourages motorists to stay aware of the present moment rather than reacting emotionally to surrounding traffic. Instead of becoming frustrated with slow lanes or aggressive drivers, the focus shifts to maintaining smooth vehicle control and observing road conditions calmly.
Research on driver stress management suggests calmer driving behaviour helps maintain cognitive stability during demanding road situations.
Kelantan’s festive traffic bottleneck
For many Malaysians travelling back to the east coast with their families, congestion around Kelantan has become a familiar part of the Raya journey. Limited highway access and the concentration of vehicles entering a smaller network of federal roads often create long traffic queues in the days leading up to the celebration.
Research analysing road crash patterns across Malaysian states found traffic volumes in Kelantan tend to rise steadily during normal years. Although the state does not record the highest crash numbers nationally, the data suggests road incidents rise when traffic volumes increase.
For motorists heading to Kelantan during Raya, patience and preparation are particularly important. Planning rest stops, checking traffic updates and leaving earlier can help reduce the stress that builds during the long approach to the state.
Calmer journey home
Traffic congestion during balik kampung season is unlikely to disappear anytime soon. However, research from transportation psychology, road safety studies and cultural research on balik kampung traditions suggests managing expectations and mental responses can significantly improve the experience.
Simple steps such as breathing exercises, scheduled rest stops and mindful driving can help reduce the stress that often accompanies long festive journeys.
Ultimately, arriving home safely matters far more than arriving quickly. With the right mindset and preparation, the Raya journey can remain part of the celebration rather than a stressful obstacle.
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