Singaporean traveller Ernz, 35, was stranded at a rest stop in Malaysia at 4:15 a.m. on July 16, 2026, after the Billion Stars Express coach he was travelling on to Kuala Lumpur departed without him during a toilet break.

Ernz told 8days.sg that what began as an ordinary overnight journey turned into one of his most stressful travel experiences. The coach had stopped midway, and assuming it was a routine rest stop, Ernz got off to use the toilet. Upon returning, he found the coach had already left.

His friend, who remained on board, informed the staff about Ernz being left behind, but according to Ernz, the staff did not stop and continued the journey. Reflecting on the incident, Ernz noted he had only taken his phone and passport with him out of habit, warning that passengers might leave all belongings on the coach during a quick break, which could have led to a more serious situation.

Despite paying an additional S$1.20 for the company's travel insurance, Ernz has not filed a claim, stating that the issue was caused by the coach operator and they have not attempted to resolve it. He has also made repeated attempts to contact Billion Stars Express but has received no response, even as his Instagram video about the incident gained attention online.

The trip was reportedly already affected by a last-minute schedule change and delay before the incident occurred.

Sources