106 countries on two wheels: A retiree’s goal to combat climate change

MALAYSIANSKINI | Retirement is the time when you’re off the workload, heavy duties and the headaches. Often, people would opt for a more peaceful life, doing crosswords or investing in a new hobby of gardening.

But former chargeperson and maintenance manager Katiravan Subarayan (above) just couldn’t sit still after he retired. On Jan 2, the man embarked on a one-year-and-a-half-long journey across 106 countries on his motorcycle.

His goal? To battle the world’s increasing issues with climate change to ensure a healthier future for the newer generations.

With his trusted BMW R 1200cc GSA bike, or “Parameswara” as he likes to call it, Katiravan will make a journey similar to the fictional Phileas Fogg - but instead of 80 days, Katiravan said he’ll most likely take over 530 days to accomplish his mission all by himself.

“And depending on my luck and opportunity, I might even visit more countries than intended,” said the retiree.

He embarked from Batu Caves, Selangor and will be riding through Singapore, Indonesia, Timor Leste and then take sea freight to Australia and New Zealand.

From there, Katiravan will be visiting Japan, South Korea, Russia and Mongolia before riding through Europe, North, Central and South America, Africa and Asia before coming home to Malaysia.

How it all started

Hailing from Malacca, the 61-year-old man said this was not his first ride across countries. In 2018, Katiravan went on a 64-day long solo journey across Asia from Myanmar to Bangladesh where he planted trees and learned about local environmental issues.

This prompted his newfound goal to travel globally - to promote environmental activism and fight against global warming.

He intends to visit these countries and encourage tree-planting initiatives with the locals. Besides that, he plans on doing beach and forest clean-ups by himself.

“I hope that my actions would move Malaysians to do the same, not just for other countries but for our own.

“I also hope that this will boost our tourism,” Katiravan cheekily added.

A disclaimer he mentioned was that people might question his decision to use a gasoline-fuelled motorcycle but he assured that his bike is within the carbon emission limits, making his journey even more environmentally friendly.

Katiravan purchased the motorcycle in 2017, equipped with a GPS device and an auto-cruise function.

It even has a built-in heating system in the handles and seats, keeping him warm when he rides through cold climates. Attached to its backseat carrier is the Malaysian flag which will be waving wherever Katiravan goes.

Based on his route research, he said might come across challenges for his bike such as difficult terrains or even the sea, which is why he stated that he would possibly use ferries and air freights (which transport vehicles) if needed.

He’s also aware of certain countries with strict Covid-19 restrictions such as China, so he will monitor any situations to prevent being turned away from borders or risking his own health and safety.

“I myself speak three languages; Tamil, English and Malay but in countries where I cannot use those languages, I have a translator app on my phone to help me,” he added when asked if the language barrier might be a problem for him.

Katiravan is aware that he will ride his bike up to eight hours a day so he has planned to rest at hostels or guesthouses, and if it’s allowed, he might even put up a tent to camp when he isn’t on the road.

Aside from travelling preparation, Katiravan made sure to be physically fit before taking off. He said he jogs daily to increase his stamina as riding bikes tends to take up his energy and he would cautiously avoid crowded areas in fear of getting Covid-19.

“This is also a challenge for my age but I won’t let that stop me.

“You can’t always expect your plans to go positively, I might fall sick, I might get injured. I always have a lot of faith in what I do and hope things will go smoothly,” he said.

The total cost of the trip is anticipated to be over RM600,000 and while he has technically achieved collecting the amount, Katiravan fears he might face a financial burden throughout his journey so he is looking for sponsors or kind donors.

Combating climate change

Nature has always been in Katiravan’s heart and he himself said that he is saddened by the current climate situation in the world.

He cited iceberg melting, droughts and floods as the issues he’d like to focus on spreading awareness of and aims to plant as many trees as possible in the countries he visits.

Katiravan acknowledged that his mission may only have a small impact towards environmental changes but added he’s happy to at least make a contribution regardless of its size.

“I can do talks on public awareness towards climate change, make people see the issue at hand.

“I will tell these people that when they get married, have a child, buy a new house or make any other life accomplishments, they should plant a tree as a form of celebration.

“Not only will it be very meaningful but it will also help the planet,” he said.

His other wish is that he wants more people to emulate his daring venture, not only to help fight climate change but to experience life beyond borders.

Katiravan made so many unforgettable memories from his first solo trip that he was excited to make more soon. He also said he seldom received travelling opportunities while he was working so he is more than eager to visit his dream country - one of which is Luxembourg.

“I want people to see that they can do this and even for people my age. Your retirement should not stop you from exploring life,” he concluded.

For those interested in keeping in touch with Katiravan, contact Arun at +6012 268 4058 or send an email to katiravan.subarayan@gmail.com.

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