By: Marwan Abdul Razak

The Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) consistently reminds all staff to deliver the best possible service going beyond expectations. In the dynamic ecosystem of a university, the constant movement of students and staff for academic and administrative purposes requires reliable support. This is where drivers play a critical role facilitating and sustaining the university's operations behind the scenes.

Being a driver may not sound as prestigious as being a doctor or engineer. Their salary is also generally lower than that of administrative assistants. At first glance, their job may appear simple driving passengers from one destination to another. But is it truly that easy? The reality is, every duty carries its own weight of responsibility and challenge. Just like doctors, nurses, soldiers, and police officers who must always be ready, drivers under the Student Affairs Division (BHEP) are equally prepared to carry out their duties at any time.

Meticulous Planning for Smooth Journeys

Daily movement of students and staff typically begins as early as 7:00 a.m. Between 5:00 and 6:00 p.m. the day before, the Head of the BHEP Vehicle Unit, Mr. Wan Nurriduan Zulkarnain Wan Zainuddin, distributes the movement schedule to all drivers for the next day. Based on this schedule, drivers carefully plan their rest and work times to ensure smooth service and the safe arrival of passengers.

Drivers' expertise in navigating routes, traffic patterns, terrain, and estimated travel times is crucial in journey planning. Weekend assignments also require them to sacrifice family time to meet their duties.

Strategic Routes and Suitable Vehicles

Student learning activities extend beyond campus and often involve off-site visits around the Klang Valley an area notorious for heavy traffic. Thus, drivers must be skilled at identifying alternative routes. 

Choosing the right type of vehicle is also essential to ensure a safe journey and avoid the risk of breakdowns. For tasks involving hilly or forested areas such as coastal regions, four-wheel drive vehicles like the Hilux or Toyota Innova are required. Information from drivers about the terrain helps management assign appropriate vehicles.

Punctuality and Safety are Priorities

Timeliness is a key component of driving service. Arrival times must be carefully planned to avoid last-minute rushes that could lead to accidents. Therefore, every vehicle booking must include a tentative program schedule to guide travel planning.

Above all, passenger safety is the greatest responsibility. Drivers are entrusted with lives, not just bodies. Guidelines from WP4.1 and the Land Public Transport Agency are always followed, with an emphasis on passenger safety and comfort.

Knowledge, Experience, and Dedication

BHEP drivers are not just licensed to drive they carry years of experience and strong work ethics. Mr. Mohd Harris bin Mohd Ali, 45, has served for 18 years, driving a variety of vehicles including buses. He always emphasizes the importance of transporting students to their classes without fail.

Joining him since 2002 are Mr. Mohd Ayub Somudi, 58, and Mr. Sharifful Azizi, 59, who both prioritize safe and comfortable journeys. Mr. Jumasnizam, 43, stresses the importance of reading traffic flow and being familiar with destinations. Mr. Mohd Shafarin Abd Mutalib, 37, ensures he arrives at least 30 minutes early to avoid delays. Mr. Mohd Ali Qawiy Tumesi and Mr. Mohd Haziq prioritize readiness in every task.

Conclusion

BHEP drivers are the unsung heroes behind the smooth operations of UPM’s campus life. Without them, students and staff would not be able to attend programmes or meetings comfortably. They enable passengers to read books, use laptops, or browse their phones in peace during travel. Their experiences across countless destinations inspire us to continue moving forward. They don’t just drive vehicles they steer the trust and responsibility of the UPM community toward excellence in every journey.

Date of Input: 28/07/2025 | Updated: 05/08/2025 | nureedayu