A Malaysian father has sparked debate online after admitting he feels jealous and a little bitter whenever he sees couples travelling without their children, because he and his wife simply cannot do the same.
According to mStar, the man said he and his wife struggle to enjoy any child-free vacation, as they would constantly be reminded of their kids no matter where they go.
Can’t travel without thinking about their children
According to him, every holiday experience triggers memories of his children.
If I see chicken dishes, I’ll think… oh, this is Kakak’s favourite,” he wrote. “See a swimming pool? Immediately imagine Kakak and Adik splashing around happily.”
“And when I see the beach… I’ll think how fun it would be watching the kids playing with sand.”
He said leaving the children behind comes with a strange, indescribable emotional weight.
You understand that feeling or not? That’s why whether things are easy or tough, we’ll still bring the kids along everywhere.”
Some parents agree, others say not everyone has the same life situation
His confession drew mixed reactions from Malaysians.
“Married for 20 years. Ever since we had kids, we’ve never left them behind for any trip. If my husband has his trip or I have my girls’ trip, there must always be one parent staying with the kids. Because we know that once they grow up, they’ll have their own commitments and won’t want to holiday with us anymore. Which happened this year. One is working, and the other is sitting for SPM.”
“You’ll definitely think of them, but it’s okay hehe. Just try and do it. If you’re worried you’ll miss the kids, start with short, nearby trips as a couple first… yesterday we travelled to…”
“I used to feel guilty about trips like this because my kids were still young. When they get a bit older, around 5–6 years old, it’s okay to leave them. A couple’s reward trip, going out together, helps you feel like you’re dating again.
Sometimes our partner pretends and says they miss the kids, but actually they still want to go out and enjoy a couple’s date together.”
