A Malaysian mother has revealed that she flies to work every day because it costs less than renting a home in the city where she works.
Racheal Kaur lives in Penang but works in Kuala Lumpur. Each weekday, she wakes before 5am, drives to the airport, and takes a short 30–40 minute flight to the capital. Her office is just a few minutes from the airport, allowing her to start work before 8am. In the evening, she flies home and is back with her family by around 7pm.
Her reason is simple: money and family time. Housing costs in Kuala Lumpur are significantly higher than in Penang. By staying in Penang, she pays a lower mortgage. Even with daily flights, she says the total expense is manageable, especially with an employee discount.
There is another benefit. Flying helps her avoid heavy road traffic in Kuala Lumpur. Instead of spending hours commuting by car, she travels quickly by air and walks to her office.
Most importantly, she can return home every evening to see her children, help with homework, and be present for family life.
Her unusual routine highlights a growing reality in many cities: rising housing costs are forcing workers to find creative solutions to balance finances and family responsibilities.