Single Mother From Terengganu Breaks Stereotypes by Driving an Express Bus to Support Her Children

Driving heavy vehicles has long been seen as a man’s job – demanding strength, endurance, and long hours on the road. For years, the image of a bus or lorry driver has been almost exclusively male. But one woman is challenging that stereotype, proving that skill and determination, not gender, belong behind the wheel.

For Nurul Ain Nadia Abdullah, she could never have imagined that life’s trials would take her this far. Growing up in a village in Setiu, Terengganu, she now travels across states as an express bus driver in search of a livelihood.

Image Credit: Harian Metro

In an interview with NST, the 26-year-old single mother of two said she had been working since finishing school. From assisting at a keropok lekor shop in her hometown to doing village work, Nurul Ain Nadia has done it all.

The seventh of eight siblings, Nurul Ain Nadia shared that she got married at the young age of 18 and welcomed her first child at 20. However, just months after the birth of her second child in 2022, her marriage came to an end.

Her interest in heavy vehicles began after following her brothers on the job

According to her, after the divorce, she worked as a night-shift security guard. During the day, she would follow her brothers, who drove lorries, and worked as an attendant. That was where her interest in heavy vehicles first sparked.

She said she took the initiative to obtain a Class E license in 2021. Two years later, her life changed when she attended an interview for a lorry driver position.

“From there, an opportunity arose when a representative from an express bus company suggested that I enrol in a bus license course with them."

After discussing it with my family, I decided to give it a try. I am grateful that I completed the Public Service Vehicle (PSV) bus license course before starting work in March 2023,” she said.

After gaining some experience, Nurul Ain Nadia joined Konsortium E-Mutiara Bhd early this year. It is understood that the decision was made as the job offered her a more flexible schedule, allowing her to spend more time with her children.

She also admitted that she chose to drive buses because the job provided financial stability and security for her and her children.

Image Credit: Harian Metro

“For me, the most meaningful achievement in life is being able to ensure my children have enough to eat and wear, and that they do not miss out on schooling. I always pray that through this job, I can continue earning a living for my children and parents,” she said.

Though she’s putting in hard work at her job, Nurul Ain Nadia harbours ambitions of starting her own business one day. She is considering a van rental service or a homestay business after seeing potential in the transport and accommodation sectors.

Nurul Ain Nadia also shared a message for women, especially single mothers facing life’s challenges. She urges them not to give up, but to rise and strive to change their future.

Featured Image Credit: Harian Metro