Starchild: Why Malaysian kids think the world of their mothers

Zachary Sanjay Joseph, 7

As Mothers Day approaches, it’s time to celebrate the amazing women in our lives who nurture, support and love us unconditionally – our mums!

Lara Anneliese Alcantra, 8Whether it’s through handmade cards, special gifts or simply spending quality time together, Mothers Day is a day to honour our loving mums.

But do you know the history behind Mothers Day?

It all started in the 19th century when American social activist Anna Jarvis wanted to honour her mother’s dream of having a memorial day to celebrate all mothers.

Today, Mothers Day is celebrated in many countries around the world, each with its own special traditions.

In Britain, children often give their mums daffodils, while in Japan, red carnations are a popular gift.

Bethany Wang Qi Syuen, 9No matter where you are, the sentiment remains the same – expressing gratitude and love for the special woman in our lives.

Remember, Mothers Day is not just about presents; it’s about expressing love and appreciation for all the things mums do every day. So, whether you’re celebrating with a big family gathering or a quiet day at home on Mothers Day this Sunday, take the time to let your mum know just how much she means to you.

Recently Starchild asked readers to send in letters on the topic, Mothers Day. Here’s what they had to say.

Chuah Seng Koon, 8

Eight-year-old Chuah Seng Koon says Mothers Day is a day that children show their gratitude to their mothers and he plans to give his mother something special.

“I love my mother as she takes great care of me whenever I am sick, cooks yummy and healthy food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. She always comforts me when I am sad. She also helps me in my homework to make my future bright. Mum, I love you and will always cherish you. Last but not least, here’s wishing all grandmothers, mothers, aunties and The Star readers a very Happy Mothers Day.”

“People celebrate Mothers Day by giving mothers presents like flowers, cards or breakfast in bed. Nowadays, our principal will organise a programme to celebrate Mothers Day in school. The programme teaches us to respect our mothers and listen to them. This year, I want to celebrate Mothers Day in my aunt’s house with my family. I wish all mothers a Happy Mothers Day,” says Lim Sheng Hao, 11.

Lucas Akhil Joseph, 2

“I love my Mama. I love to go out with Mama. We always go for many drives together. I also love playing toys and games with Mama,” says Lucas Akhil Joseph, two.

Older sibling Zachary Sanjay Joseph, seven, writes: “I love planning surprises for my mother on Mothers Day. My mother always teaches me many things. We like spending time together and learning new things.”

Asher Wang Qi Chuen, 6“l love Mummy because she’s nice, good, friendly and she loves me. She teaches me Mandarin, Bahasa Malaysia and English. Sometimes, we cook and bake together. I want to wish her a very happy Mothers Day,” says six-year-old Asher Wang Qi Chuen.

“My mother is a very funny person who takes care of my brothers and me. She teaches us right from wrong. I love her because she always makes me laugh and always helps me find my lost items. My mother supports me in everything that I learn. I love my mother,” writes Bethany Wang Qi Syuen, nine.

“I love my Mummy. She is my best friend. She smells nice. Mummy is kind and she helps many sick people. I want to be pretty like Mummy when I am older,” writes Lara Anneliese Alcantra, seven.

Find the hidden words!

ITEM: Now that we’ve all gushed about our mothers, it’s time to give fathers their due. Fathers Day is just around the corner. Send us letters about your dads and don’t forget that photographs are welcome too.

Email your contributions to [e-mail] by May 24. Please put “STARCHILD: Fathers Day” 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. Instead of handwritten letters, please type out your letters.