Starchild: Why Malaysian kids think the world of their fathers

Jayden Tan Li Sheng, 11

Fathers Day is a cherished occasion to honour the enduring significance of fathers and father figures. Celebrated annually on the third Sunday of June, this special day recognises the love, sacrifice, and guidance provided by fathers in shaping the lives of their children.

Fathers Day serves as a reminder to express gratitude and appreciation for the contributions fathers make to their families and society. It offers an opportunity to acknowledge their unwavering support, mentorship, and unconditional love, which are pivotal in nurturing the next generation.

How did you celebrate Fathers Day last Sunday? Did you make a card with a special message for your father? Or did you make a homemade gift, such as a photo collage or a handwritten story? Spending quality time together, like going for a walk, having a picnic, or playing games, are also great ways to create lasting memories and make our dads feel cherished.

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

Haley Khoo, 6

“My daddy is tall. He has oval eyes and he wears glasses. He likes to make us laugh by telling jokes and imitating cartoon characters. He is also very kind. He likes to help people and animals. He is Mr Fix-It-All, because if something is broken, he can fix it. He loves KFC, but he loves us more! When he is free, he watches TV or plays with us. He is our home doctor and takes really good care of us when we are sick. We love him because he cares for us a lot and loves us very much. Happy Fathers Day, Daddy! We love you,” writes Haley Khoo, six.

Resse Wong, 8

Eight-year-old Resse Wong, writes: “I really appreciate my dad for buying food for my family. I am glad because my dad works very hard for our family, I hope he earns a lot of money. I am also grateful to my dad because he keeps me safe by having him beside me when I go to bed.”

Chan Xuan Hui, 12

“My dad is like a special friend to me. He’s always by my side. I’m glad he helps me with my Chinese homework. I’m also grateful that my dad always helps to fix the leaking pipes around the house. I really appreciate my dad for everything he has done for me,” writes Chan Xuan Hui, 12.

Sean Ong, 12

Sean Ong, 12, writes: “I really appreciate my dad for buying gifts for me whenever he travels. I am glad my dad brings me to many places to play. I am also grateful to him for teaching me how to be a good person.”

“The thing I like best about my daddy is he is always making time to do many things with me. He teaches me basic programming and chess. I am trying to learn badminton from him. He carries my heavy school bag when he picks me up from school. I miss him whenever he is away from us, writes Bethany Wang Qi Syuen, eight.

Bethany Wang Qi Syuen, 8

Jayden Tan Li Sheng, 11, writes, “My father always buys me gifts. On Fathers Day, I surprised him with a gift. My father loves beautiful paintings. I drew a painting for him too. My father is my hero. He is always there to give me and my siblings advice, encouraging us to do better in life and supporting us in whatever we do. We will always be thankful to my dad. Daddy, I love you.”

Sandy Liew, 7

Sandy Liew, seven, thinks her father is a super dad. “I like my dad because he fetches me to the tuition centre every morning without fail. I hope he will always be healthy and happy.”

Find the hidden words!

ITEM: Once upon a time, in a land of colours, there was a magical hot air balloon named Sparkle. It soared high above the clouds, carrying dreams and giggles. Sparkle’s secret was its basket full of wishes. With every ride, children whispered their dreams, and the balloon made them come true. This week, Starchild wants readers to design a special magical hot air balloon and tell us about your special wishes for Sparkle. Don’t forget to send us your drawings.

Email your contributions to [e-mail] by July 7. Please put “STARCHILD: Sparkle The Magic Balloon” 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.