British Teen Vanishes After Secret Flight to Malaysia With Just S$2,200, Family Begs for Contact
A 17-year-old British student, David Balisong, has gone missing after secretly boarding a one-way flight to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia last month. His family, unaware of his plans, is urgently appealing for him to get in touch, saying they are not angry—only deeply worried for his safety.
David, from Cheadle, Greater Manchester, disappeared on 6 June after telling his younger brother he had “some stuff to do at school.” Instead, he flew alone from Manchester Airport to Malaysia with just £1,200 (approximately S$2,200) in his bank account. His passport was later found missing, and police confirmed he left the UK alone. Upon arrival at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), he was granted a 90-day tourist visa.
No Warning Signs, Family in Shock
David’s parents, Minerva and Lorenzo Balisong, said they had no indication of his plans. Minerva, 50 and a critical care nurse, described the emotional impact as “a tsunami,” adding, “We never saw this coming. One moment he was home, and the next, he was gone.”
“He’s always been responsible and respectful. He asks permission and keeps us updated when he goes out. This is completely out of character,” she said. “We just want to hear from him to know he’s safe. We won’t force him to come back if he doesn’t want to, but we need to know he’s alright.”
David was in the midst of his A-Level exams at the time. While he might have been stressed, his parents say it was no more than what any student experiences.
No Ties to Malaysia, GoFundMe Launched for Search
Born in the UK to Filipino parents, David has no known connections in Malaysia, making his choice to fly there baffling. To help locate him, a family friend set up a GoFundMe campaign that has raised about S$2,800 (approximately £1,933), targeting S$3,100 (about £2,200) to cover the costs of travel for his parents to Malaysia.
Calls for Stronger Travel Safeguards for Minors
The case has sparked concerns over the ability of minors to travel internationally without parental consent or adequate checks. Despite being only 17, David managed to book and board a flight without alerting his family. There are calls for enhanced airport security measures to prevent such occurrences.
Mental health professionals also suggest exam pressures or personal struggles might have influenced David’s sudden disappearance. Without contact from him, however, his family remains anxious and confused.
High CPM keywords like missing teen abroad, underage travel safety, UK student Malaysia, and teen runaway could attract interest from advertisers focusing on travel security, youth mental health, and legal advisory services.
Family’s Heartfelt Plea
David’s parents have a simple message for their son:
“David, please get in touch. We love you and just want to know you’re safe. We’re not angry and will support whatever you decide.”
Anyone in Malaysia with information is urged to contact local authorities immediately.
This case highlights the urgent need for better communication, mental health support, and travel safety measures to protect young people worldwide.