PETALING JAYA: As families celebrate Fathers Day, Better Dads Malaysia is urging Malaysians to look beyond gifts and focus instead on what many fathers value most – quality time with their loved ones.
Its co-founder and adviser Jason Leong said Fathers Day is not only about recognising fathers, but also appreciating the often unseen sacrifices they make every day for their families.
“The best gift for any father is knowing he has made a positive difference in the lives of the people he loves,” he said when contacted.
Better Dads Malaysia is a non- profit organisation dedicated to strengthening families by equipping fathers and father figures with the skills and support needed to become more engaged parents.
Leong said meaningful moments shared with family often mean far more to fathers than material gifts.
“Whether it’s a heartfelt conversation, a handwritten note, a hug or simply hearing the words ‘Thank you, Dad’, these small gestures can mean the world.”
Leong said such moments are often the greatest reward for fathers who spend years quietly providing for their families while balancing work, finances and personal responsibilities.
Many fathers today, he added, are grappling with long working hours, rising living costs and growing family responsibilities, often leaving them physically exhausted and emotionally stretched.
“Too often, men spend a lot of time making a living but not enough time making a life.
“Many have also never been taught important life skills such as communication, emotional management and parenting in the digital age, leaving them uncertain about how to navigate modern fatherhood.
“Children may not remember every gift they receive, but they will remember whether their father was present, available, encouraging and supportive.”
Leong noted that many fathers also face social isolation, carrying their burdens quietly without strong support networks of other men who understand their struggles.
Addressing that challenge has been at the heart of Better Dads Malaysia’s work over the past decade through fatherhood workshops, parenting programmes, mentoring initiatives and community outreach efforts.
“Our goal is not just to teach parenting skills, but to strengthen communication, emotional intelligence and leadership within families,” he said.
Looking ahead, Leong hopes fatherhood will be recognised as a national development priority alongside education, healthcare and economic growth.
“When fathers thrive, families thrive – and when families thrive, the nation prospers.”
