Fatimah (front, fourth from left) and other distinguished guests blow out candles on a cake to celebrate the occasion. — Photo by Muhammad Rais Sanusi
KUCHING: It is extremely important for parents to be role models for their children, said Minister of Welfare, Women and Family Development Datuk Fatimah Abdullah.
There would be many happy families if parents showed good qualities and behaviours for their children to emulate, she added.
“Negative behaviour such as arguing and cursing will affect a child’s soul and influence their interactions with others. Therefore, it is important for parents to exhibit positive behaviours, act as role models, and equip themselves with parenting skills.
“In the case of my ministry, we have prepared programmes such as ‘Marriage Course – Fasten Your Seat Belt’, which was held twice last year and is happening now until May 22.
“There is also the ‘Pasca Perkahwinan’ and ‘Raikan Cinta’ courses. All these courses and programmes are aimed at empowering the family institution,” she said on Saturday at the Parents Day Carnival, which was held from May 8 to May 10 at CityOne Megamall.
Fatimah also spoke of the need for parents to pay attention and spend quality time with their families.
“Parents should also provide wholesome moral values, watch their actions, and survey their activities. Each family member must respect each other so as to avoid anything that can spark a fight or argument.
“Meanwhile, children should appreciate their parents for their contributions, and they can show their appreciation by doing things such as offering financial aid, providing a home, showing their love and attention for their parents as well as fulfilling their requests and doing things that parents love.”
In addition, children should always contact their parents as often as possible.
Present at the launching ceremony were Fatimah’s husband Datu Adi Badiozaman, Assistant Minister of Early Childhood Education and Family Development Rosey Yunus, Ministry of Welfare, Women and Family Development permanent secretary Megir Gumbek, Women and Family Development Department director Noriah Ahmad and Women Entrepreneurs Chamber (Dewanita) chairwoman Juita Drap.