Their homes, once busy with the activities of school-going children and working adults, are quieter now and marked by routines. One helps to look after grandchildren daily as their children work out of Kluang, another has her children in Kluang but living separately, while the rest nurse empty nests. For many of my mother’s friends, the only disruption to their routine is when their children return, usually during festive seasons and long holidays. Each of her friends know exactly when their friends’ children will return, the duration of their stay and the travel plan. Soon they would start sharing about their lives, children and the joy or happiness they gave and the holidays they just had or were looking forward to.

Source: The Star January 10, 2026 11:45 UTC