Navigating city life as a woman often requires an extra level of vigilance, as one Malaysian woman, Suraya, recently experienced in Subang Jaya. In a viral Threads post, she shared her unsettling encounter to remind others, particularly solo women, to stay alert while commuting in busy areas like Subang Jaya’s LRT and KTM stations.
Photo via Threads (@surayayaaa)
Suraya recounted how she and her friend became aware of a mysterious man who seemed to be following them. The incident began when they noticed the man asking for money from a stranger at the station, receiving RM2. At first, nothing seemed unusual, and the pair walked past him without a second thought.
However, as they continued, they felt an unsettling presence. The man appeared to follow them closely, walking beside them at the same pace. Their unease grew when they reached the bus station and noticed the man was still trailing behind.
To confirm their suspicions, Suraya and her friend pretended to take a selfie, using the phone’s camera to check if he was still there. Sure enough, the man remained nearby, his behaviour growing increasingly suspicious.
They quickly decided to leave the area, heading towards the SJCC Gallery Centre and eventually Subang Parade. Throughout the journey, they continued to use their phones to discreetly monitor him. Finally, the man seemed to realise he was being watched and turned back towards the Subang Jaya station.
Safety Tips for Women Travelling Alone in Kuala Lumpur
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Stay Alert: Always be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. If something feels off, act on it.
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Use Technology: Use your phone’s camera to discreetly monitor suspicious individuals, just as Suraya did.
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Stick to Public Areas: Walk in well-lit, populated areas where help is more accessible.
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Have an Emergency Plan: Keep emergency contacts on speed dial and know the location of nearby safe spaces, like malls or police stations.
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Share Your Location: Inform someone you trust about your whereabouts and estimated time of arrival.
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Carry Self-Defence Tools: Items like a whistle, pepper spray, or a personal alarm can be helpful in deterring threats.
While such encounters can be frightening, staying prepared and vigilant can make a significant difference. Always prioritise your safety and take proactive measures to protect yourself in public spaces.
