A social media user has shared a heartwarming experience involving an e-hailing driver believed to be suffering from a rare metabolic disorder known as trimethylaminuria (TMAU), a condition that can cause strong body odour despite good personal hygiene.
The individual, @husnazaris, said she noticed a note placed on the back seat of a ride-hailing vehicle during a recent trip, which explained the driver’s condition.
“Hello, I am a Grab driver suffering from a metabolic disorder with no cure. I am 100% clean. Sorry. TMAU Awareness Foundation,” the note reportedly read.
Curious about the condition, she later researched TMAU online and learned that it is a rare metabolic disorder that affects the body’s ability to break down trimethylamine, a compound that can produce a strong fish-like odour when released through sweat, urine, and breath.
The discovery helped her better understand the driver’s situation and encouraged her to view the matter with greater empathy rather than judgement.
She also praised the driver for maintaining a professional attitude, noting that the vehicle was clean and smelled pleasant, and that the driver even chewed gum before the ride to minimise any discomfort for passengers.
“I can say the driver did his best to manage the condition. The car was clean and fresh, and he chewed gum before I got in,” she shared.
Her post quickly gained attention online, with many users expressing sympathy and appreciation for the driver’s efforts in continuing to provide services despite his medical condition.
Some commenters also urged the public to be more understanding and avoid making assumptions about individuals facing health-related challenges.
Medical expert Dr Zubaidi Ahmad explained that TMAU is a rare disorder where the body is unable to break down trimethylamine, causing it to accumulate and be released through bodily fluids, resulting in a strong fish-like odour.
