STRIKING a balance between work and family has been a struggle for most fathers – and that includes Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
Since he took up the heavy responsibility as the Penang Chief Minister two years ago, the time spent with his family has been limited.
“I try my best to allocate time for my family, especially on Sundays. We spend time chatting, doing recreational activities and dining together.
“People cannot stop the passing of time. Before we know it, our children have grown,” Chow said, expressing his belief that family bonding is extremely important.
He was taking part in a video conference, in conjunction with the Father’s Day celebration, today.
The conference was showcased live on his Facebook page.
Chow said he has a strong grip on the Penang2030 vision, ‘A Family-Focused Green and Smart State that Inspires the Nation’.
“Being a father myself, I understand that sometimes it is difficult for fathers to express their feelings. Perhaps, this is a personality of a father.
“Silence does not mean that there are no love and affection,” he said.
Chow said the role of a father is to educate and protect his children.
“The current era of globalisation makes it challenging. Fathers need to understand the mindset of their children. They have to understand their children’s needs and their favourites while playing the role as the ‘umbrella’.
“I, too, have to keep up with technology and understand my children better.
“There were no smartphones, computers or even social media in the past,” Chow said, reminiscing about his past.
The live session, which was moderated by Penang Women’s Development Corporation (PWDC) chief executive officer Ong Bee Leng, featured Women and Family Development, Gender Inclusiveness and Religions Other Than Islam Committee chairman Chong Eng, Jawi assemblyman Jason H’ng Mooi Lye and Bagan Dalam assemblyman M. Satees.
The family-friendly session also included a sign language interpreter.
Chong Eng thanked Chow for championing gender equality and social justice.
“He is an exemplary figure of a father who makes sure that he spends time with his family,” Chong Eng said.
H’ng and Satees also shared their views during the session.
Happy Father’s Day to all fathers!
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix and video by Law Suun Ting