Why Do Young Colleagues Act Like You Owe Them a Ride (or Your Life)?

 Why Do Young Colleagues Act Like You Owe Them a Ride (or Your Life)?

You know those moments at work when a young colleague gives you the “abang/kakak” eyes and asks for a ride to the LRT or, worse, all the way home? Suddenly, you’re not their senior—you’re their Grab driver. And the best part? It’s free!

If this has happened to you, don’t worry. You’re not alone. Let’s break down why some youngsters in the workplace act like you’re indebted to them just because you’re older and drive a car.

The “Boss, Can Tumpang Ah?” Request

It always starts small: “Eh, you driving? Can tumpang me to the station? So near only, five minutes, I swear!”
At first, you think, okay lah, no harm helping once in a while. But then it becomes an everyday thing. Next thing you know, you’re basically running a taxi service.

What’s funny is how they ask so casually, like you were born to be their personal chauffeur. Got car, got seniority? Boom, your life belongs to them now. Never mind that you have your own errands, deadlines, or maybe you just want to enjoy some peace and quiet on the way home.

Thank You? Apa Itu?

Let’s talk about the thank you. Sometimes, you don’t even get one. Or if you do, it’s the bare minimum: “Thanks, ya.” End of story. No heartfelt appreciation, no offers to buy you teh tarik next time. Just a quick thanks, and they’re out of your car like you’re their loyal Grab driver.

You’re left there wondering, “Am I too nice or what?”

Why Do They Act Like This?

To be fair, it’s not entirely their fault. This generation grew up in a world of convenience. They tap their phone, and food shows up at the door. They press a button, and a Grab car appears. Asking you for a ride feels just as normal to them—except you’re cheaper than Grab. You’re free!

How to Handle These “Tumpang” Kings and Queens

Here’s the good news: you’re not actually a Grab driver, so you can say no. But how do you do it without feeling guilty or starting drama?

1. Be Clear and Direct:
   If you don’t want to set a bad precedent, say it from the start:
   “Eh, I can drop you this once, but next time you have to find your own way, okay?”

2. Make It Funny:
   Sometimes humor works better than being serious.
   “Wah, you think I driving taxi ah? Next time must pay, okay!”
   They’ll laugh, but they’ll get the message.

3. Blame Your Schedule:
   Use your “busy adult life” as an excuse.
   “Aiyoh, I have to rush today, cannot detour lah.”

4. Introduce Them to Grab or LRT:
   Seriously, the LRT is their best friend. If they live somewhere with no public transport, well, maybe they need to rethink their life choices.

Don’t Let Them Take Advantage

It’s fine to help out once in a while, but don’t let these young colleagues guilt-trip you into thinking it’s your job to drive them around. Your car, your petrol, your time. If they don’t get it, just tell them, “Boss, Grab also need to pay one, you know!”

Remember, you’re their colleague, not their unpaid Uber. Have fun at work, but don’t forget to draw the line. And if all else fails, next time just say, “Sorry, car full already!”