IPOH – A Malaysian hijabi Muslim has made history, becoming the first solo Muslim woman rider to bike around the globe.

“My solo feat will definitely motivate others, especially women, to embark on,” Anita Yusof told The Sun Daily on Tuesday, October 4.

“I have been invited to give talks and I will share my experiences with the audience,” she said, adding that her next adventure is to Himalaya.

Yusof, who rode her bike around the globe for a year received a warm reception from her colleagues, students and staff of Institut Pendidikan Guru (IPG) Ipoh Campus in Ulu Kinta today.

The 49-year-old lecturer who arrived in her Yamaha XZ 150 received gifts,souvenirs and plaque for her feat from the institute.

Exhilarated by her achievement, she plans to write a book on her globe travel as there were so many unforgettable experiences, incidents and events that she can share with others.

The mother of two sons said she is proud to become the first Muslim woman to travel solo around the globe on a motorcycle.

“There is always a negative perception, especially when it comes to women, travelling to countries alone. There were instances when I visited some countries and the people could not believe that I, as a Muslim woman, was travelling alone,” she added.

In her journey, she countered a wrong misconception that Muslims discriminate against women.

With only her hard-earned savings of RM120,000 in hand, she had to be careful with her expenses.

“By God’s grace I did receive some cash and accommodation in some of the countries I travelled,” said Anita whose bike was sponsored by Hong Leong Yamaha while GIVI Asia Sdn Bhd, (GIVI Malaysia), a manufacturer of motorcycle accessories, supported her with jackets, helmet and other necessities.

She traveled a distance of 65,369km from Sept 13, 2015, and returned to the country on Sept 16 this year to make it more meaningful on Malaysia Day.

Her feat also gained a place in the Malaysia Book of Records as the First Solo Motorcycle Ride Around The World.