Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri emphasises parent-child communication as foundation for harmonious families and disciplined society, urging parental example-setting.
KUALA LUMPUR: Effective communication between parents and children is the foundation for building a harmonious family and a disciplined society, said Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri.
Nancy said every parent must play their role as the primary example, as their behaviour and speech at home serve as a reflection of their children’s conduct.
“Children listen to how we speak; we are their example. You are the role model,” she when appearing as a guest on Bernama TV’s “Podcast Kasih Lensa Keluarga” programme titled “Kasih Keluarga, Bahagia Bersama” here on Wednesday (November 5).
At the same time, Nancy said the role of parents goes beyond providing basic needs, encompassing the responsibility to educate and instil moral values and discipline among their children.
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She said that although busy work schedules and technological advancement have limited family time, simple practices such as eating together can strengthen bonds and help parents understand their children’s development.
On gadget use among children, Nancy acknowledged it as one of today’s major challenges and urged parents to be firm in setting limits and monitoring the content their children access.
“I see people giving their children phones to make things easier for themselves, but when they take the phone back, the child cries. Discipline must start early — let them cry, because you’re teaching them discipline,” she said.
She added that although some digital content is educational, parental supervision remains crucial to ensure children are not exposed to negative influences.
Nancy also cautioned that parents who overprotect their children even when they are clearly in the wrong may contribute to irresponsible behaviour in society.
She advised parents to involve their children in daily household tasks to instil a sense of responsibility and independence.
“A happy and disciplined family is not built overnight, but through parents’ commitment to communicate effectively and to set an example in every action,” she said. – Bernama
