Children should visit parents often, says minister

PUTRAJAYA: Children who live away from their parents are encouraged to visit them more often to ensure they do not suffer from loneliness and depression, said Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Rohani Abdul Karim.

She said 36.1% of senior citizens expressed “feeling emptiness” in their lives due to neglect from their families, according to studies conducted by the ministry in relation to loneliness among senior citizens.

“Remember, the fact that we are able to stand on our own feet today is due to the love and care provided by our mothers and fathers.

“We would never exist if there is no womb that is willing to bear us,” she said when officiating at the national-level Mother’s Day celebration at the Alamanda shopping centre yesterday.

Rohani also encouraged children to spend quality time with their parents despite their commitments towards a “work-life balance”.

“Children should forge a stronger bond with their parents, especially their mothers, because they are irreplaceable.”

She said the Mother’s Day theme “Saya Sayang Ibu Saya” (I Love My Mother) has been the theme for three years straight as it contains a clear yet meaningful message.

On another matter, Rohani cautioned parents to constantly monitor the welfare and movements of their children, especially in the era of social media.

“The findings in the 2016 Malaysian Family Development Index Research revealed three indicators, including the usage of communications applications, usage of SMS and phone calls as well as parental control of communications applications, play a major influence towards the development of children today.

“The lack of parental control and guidance could lead the children to be exposed to unwanted elements such as sexual grooming online,” she added.