Financial support has long been a sensitive topic in marriages, especially when both husband and wife are earning their own income.
That was the dilemma faced by a woman who recently shared her story on Threads. Despite earning RM5,000 a month, she still wondered if she was entitled to regular financial support (nafkah) from her husband, whom she married just six months ago.
Living apart & paying for herself
According to her, she and her husband are currently living apart (LDR) for undisclosed reasons.
I earn RM5,000 monthly. I can save RM1,500 and also give my parents RM1,500 every month. When we live together, everything is fine. He pays for food, gifts, and anything I want.
“But when we’re apart, I end up supporting myself financially,” she wrote.
Although her husband had initially agreed to cover the cost of the house, car, and groceries before marriage, she explained that she now bears those commitments herself since she is living with her parents.
“If we don’t meet for two months, then for two months I don’t get any allowance. I feel embarrassed to ask and he doesn’t bring it up either,” she added.
Fears of being seen as a ‘gold digger’
The woman admitted that she often suppressed her feelings because she was afraid of being judged.
It’s not that I want his money. In fact, I feel unworthy to ask for anything. But if I do, it feels like I’m a ‘gold digger’,” she confessed.
The couple, who do not have children yet, have been married for only half a year.
“If we continue being in an LDR for another year without kids, it means I’ll have to swallow this feeling of guilt for another year,” she lamented.
Netizens’ comments
Her post quickly attracted attention, with many netizens reminding her that financial support remains a husband’s responsibility regardless of whether the wife works or lives with her parents.
‘I make 4x more than my husband yet he still gives me financial support. It’s sinful not to give.’
‘Sis, please ask as long as your husband is capable, even if you’re living with your parents. You deserve your financial support. Don’t feel embarrassed to ask & you’re not a gold digger. Don’t be sad, okay.’
‘I used to be like you too. He provides everything and I also have my own salary, so I didn’t want to ask from my husband. But actually when you ask your husband, or when he gives you financial support, his blessings become more abundant. Don’t you want him to have more blessings? Just ask. Even if it’s not much, RM100 a month is fine. Thank me later.’
