A strong fatherly role is the first line of defence against social ills, drug abuse and erosion of values, says deputy prime minister
CYBERJAYA: A strong and effective fatherly role can serve as the earliest layer of protection in preventing children from being drawn into social ills, drug abuse and the erosion of values.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said efforts to empower parenting, particularly fathers’ involvement in children’s upbringing and education, must continue to be prioritised as part of national efforts to build stable families, a harmonious society and a safer future for the next generation.
“In facing today’s social challenges, fathers must be present not only as providers, but also as moral guides, attentive listeners, and role models in shaping character, discipline and resilience.
“With the pressures of the rising cost of living, the influence of social media, rapid social change and increasingly complex life demands, the active involvement of fathers in children’s lives is becoming ever more important,” he said.
The text of his speech was read out by Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Lim Hui Ying at the 2026 National Father’s Day celebration organised by the National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN) here today.
Fadillah said the MADANI Government has always placed the family institution as the foundation of national strength, and in line with this aspiration, the National Family Compassion Policy (Dasar KASIH Keluarga Negara), launched earlier, serves as an important guide in strengthening family institutions in the country.
“In realising the aspirations under the policy, I am informed that LPPKN has developed a new Fatherhood Module in 2025, which places emphasis on modern parenting skills.
“The module covers leadership, psychological wellbeing, effective communication and the use of social support networks to help fathers carry out their roles more effectively, in line with the aspirations of the National KASIH Family Agenda to produce a harmonious, prosperous and morally upright society,” he said.
Lim told a press conference later that the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development (KPWKM) is committed to empowering men through the MEN Empowerment Network (MEN).
She said the strategic network, which brings together expertise from 20 non-governmental organisations (NGOs), will act as a key driver of holistic fatherhood programmes.
“Through the initiative, various training programmes on conflict management, parenting skills and mental health will be implemented to help men manage life pressures, while also removing the stigma that seeking help when facing emotional challenges is a weakness,” she said.
At the same event, the ‘Anugerah Khas Inspirasi Bapa’ was presented to three individuals in recognition of their resilience, sacrifice and extraordinary commitment in raising and educating their children.
The recipients were Autism Cafe Project founder Mohd Adli Yahya, community activist Mohd Azhan Mohd Adnan, better known as Abbe Hae, and Mohd Yusof Mohd Noor, or ‘Abang Minyak Hitam Jalanan’.
