Starchild: Why Malaysian children think the world of their dads

Farrel Zafran Faihan, 9

Fathers Day is celebrated on the third Sunday of June each year. It is a special day for children to show appreciation for their fathers and father figures who care for, support and guide them.

Devisha Kannan, 10

Fathers play many important roles in the family. Some work long hours to provide for their loved ones, while others help send their children to school, attend sports events or spend weekends enjoying family activities.

Whether they are driving the family for trips, teaching their children to ride a bicycle or sharing advice over a meal, fathers often show their love through everyday actions.

Many children may remember simple but meaningful moments with their fathers, such as cycling in the park, visiting the pasar malam or playing video games.

Some may also enjoy watching football matches with their fathers, especially with the FIFA World Cup 2026 happening now in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Father figures also deserve recognition. Grandfathers, uncles, stepfathers and guardians often provide guidance, encouragement and support to children.

Their kIndness and care can make a big difference in a young person’s life.

Bethany Wang Qi Syuen, 11

Fathers Day does not have to be about buying expensive gifts.

A handmade card, a drawing, a favourite home-cooked dish or even a heartfelt “thank you” can make fathers feel loved and appreciated.

Spending quality time together is often the best gift of all.

Here are the letters from Starchild readers on the topic, Fathers Day. We will publish more drawings next week.

“My father is a busy man, yet he always makes time to play badminton with me and assist me with my Maths homework.

"He often cooks nutritious meals for the family and sends me and my brother for extra curricular activities. I am very grateful to have a wonderful Daddy like him,” says Bethany Wang Qi Syuen, 11.

“Happy Fathers Day, Abah! I want to thank you for all the little things you do that I sometimes forget to say thank you for – like sending me to school, helping me with homework and teaching me photography.

"You always believe in me even when I make mistakes. You are my biggest supporter and my best friend,” writes Farrel Zafran Faihan, nine.

Nur Ameera Mohd Khairul Nizam, 12

“To my Dad, Happy Fathers Day! I know you work very hard every day to take care of our family. I want you to know that I see and appreciate your efforts. You are strong, kind and always thinking about us first.

Dhia Zhulaiqa Kamarul Ariffin, 12

"Thank you for your hugs, your stories and your encouragement. I hope you have a wonderful day because you truly deserve it,” says Nur Ameera Mohd Khairul Nizam, 12.

“Dear Dad, Happy Fathers Day! Thank you for always knowing how to fix things at home... even when you secretly watch YouTube tutorials first. I still think you’re a superhero,” says Devisha Kannan, 10.

“Dear Ayah, Happy Fathers Day! I really enjoy all the special moments we share, like eating together and going out on weekends.

"Thank you for being such a caring and loving father,” says Dhia Zhulaiqa Kamarul Ariffin, 12.
 

 

 

 

ITEM: Do you love having fun outdoors? Do you enjoy cycling in the park, flying kites or hiking with your family? How about enjoying a picnic under the trees? Tell us about your favourite outdoor activity and why you enjoy it so much. Who do you usually do it with? What makes it exciting, fun or special for you? 

Email your contributions to [e-mail] by July 3. Please put “STARCHILD: My favourite outdoor activity” in the subject line of your email.

Scanned drawings should be in jpeg format, with a resolution of 200dpi. Your contributions must carry your full name, age (open to children aged 12 and below only), gender, phone contact, and address. Instead of handwritten letters, please type out your letters.