Filial piety tested by changing social realities

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IN many Asian societies, including Malaysia, filial piety carries strong cultural expectations. It is often framed in absolute terms, where caring for parents is seen as a moral obligation that should not be questioned.

But these expectations are increasingly being tested by changing social realities. The structure of families is different today. Households are smaller. Many young adults migrate to cities or even abroad for education and work. Dual-income households are common, leaving less time for caregiving.