Emporium Blog

Miserable in Malaysia

Archive for the ‘Families’


Published September 14th, 2009

Bundle of Joy on 090909

It is the 9th of September 2009, 10.49am to be precise that my second child was born. My family has grown. Mommy, Daddy, daughter and son. I am happy.

Life has changed, especially during the last few years. Things have mellowed down rather drastically. Noticed too that this post took over a year from the last one to appear.

Excitement has taken a new meaning. It is all done that, seen that, tasted that and been there kind of feeling. Responsibility takes precedent over all things now.

I am officially settled down, I shall say.

Published May 13th, 2007

Mother’s Day in a Different Way

I am born and raised in a traditional Malaysian Chinese family. Although we live in the city and have adopted the modern way of living, some things stay the same. Emotions and love is not shown openly, it is more subdued and kept in the heart.

In most Malaysian families, members do not hug each other or kiss each other on the cheek. The words “I love you” among family members are unheard of. The words are perceived and solely to mean love between couples and it may even denote incest if spoken to family members. Physical contacts are also kept to the minimum. I don’t even remember the last time I am hugged by my parents.

Well, that does not mean we do not love each other. Simple gestures of the elders like a nod of the head when greeted are sufficed to show they know you love them and they love you in return. I am not kidding.

I called my mom on the phone and say “Happy Mother’s Day!” and she says “Thank you”.