Starchild: Malaysian kids say, "Dad, you're amazing!"

Dhia Aqilia Kamarul Ariffin, 9

Fathers Day may be over, but the happy memories made with our dads are worth sharing!

Joshua Tan, 12

Did you surprise your dad with a handmade card or a special drawing? Did you help mummy bake a cake, prepare his favourite meal, or make a thoughtful gift?

Maybe you spent the day doing something fun together, like watching a movie, playing a game, going out for a meal or simply chatting with your dad.

While Fathers Day gives us a special chance to say “thank you”, showing our love and appreciation for our fathers can happen every day.

Fathers often show their love in many ways. Some wake up early to prepare breakfast, send their children to school, help with homework or work hard to provide for their families.

Others offer words of encouragement, share advice or simply lend a listening ear when their children need support.

Here is the second batch of letters from Starchild readers on the topic, Fathers Day.

Fathiahana Arissa Faihan, 11

Asher Wang Qi Chuen, 8

“To my beloved Abah, Happy Fathers Day! I know you work very hard every day to take care of our family, and I want you to know that I see and appreciate your efforts,” says Fathiahana Arissa Faihan, 11.

Nine-year-old Dhia Aqilia Kamarul Ariffin, says: “Ayah, you are strong, kind and always thinking about us first. Thank you for your hugs, your stories and your encouragement. I hope you have a wonderful day because you truly deserve it.”

Asher Wang Qi Chuen, eight, says: “My father works hard to provide for the family. He likes reading and I like to ask him questions as he is very knowledgeable. He also teaches me math and chess at home. Although he disciplines me when I misbehave, I still love my father very much.”

Joshua Tan, 12, shares: “On Fathers Day, my siblings and I planned a special surprise for my father by helping mummy prepare a delicious dinner filled with his favourite foods. We cooked grilled chicken with spices, steamed fish, salmon salad and tasty side dishes like potato wedges and water chestnut soup.

“My two older sisters helped with the cooking while I arranged the table and ensured everything was ready for our family meal. When my grandma joined us for dinner, everyone was happy because it became a wonderful family gathering.

“Seeing my father enjoy the food made me feel very happy. I love my father so much and this special memory is something my family and I will always cherish.”

Mithrasri Siva Chandran, 9

“My father’s name is Siva Chandran. He works in Singapore and comes back every fortnight. Whenever he is back home, I like to play football and video games with him. He is very special to me because he helps me with my studies and buys me presents often. I love him very much. I am so happy that I have a caring and loving Appa. Happy Fathers Day, Appa,” says Mithrasri Siva Chandran, nine.

Cheryl Ling Sze Tien, 9

Cheryl Ling Sze Tien, nine, writes: “My father is 40 and he works in Singapore. Although he couldn’t celebrate Fathers Day with us because he is abroad, it does not matter. He has a round face, bushy eyebrows and a wide smile. I think he is the best father in the world because he knows how to comfort me when I am sad. I love to play badminton with him.”

“Words cannot explain how much I love my dad. I love him more than words can ever say. Every day, my dad wakes me up, sends me to school and picks me up after school. He always makes sure I have food to eat and takes care of me every day.

“He helps me with my homework, cares about my studies and always wants the best for me. I feel so blessed and grateful to have such a loving and wonderful dad. Dad, I love you so much. Thank you for always being there for me. Happy Fathers Day, Dad,” says Michelle Tan Mei Kuan, 11.

Michelle Tan Mei Kuan, 11

ITEM: Grandmas are special people who fill our lives with love, kindness and wonderful memories. Draw a picture of your gorgeous grandma and show us what makes her amazing. It could be a favourite moment together, her hobby, or something you love about her. What makes your grandma special? Share your artwork with us!

Email your contributions to [e-mail] by July 10. Please put “STARCHILD: My grandma” 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.