Family is not just being together physically; it's about creating connections, sharing experiences & nurturing relations

Opinion
4 Dec 2025 • 7:30 AM MYT
Zulkifly Baharom
Zulkifly Baharom

An HR practitioner, Sejahtera Leadership Coach & Gusi Peace Prize Laureate.

Image from: Family is not just being together physically; it's about creating connections, sharing experiences & nurturing relations
Dato' Nawawi (standing) chaired the digital & physical countdown timers of his son, Aizat's wedding reception. Pix: Syahrin

Family is so important because of all the love and support it provides. Experience taught me that being with family helps construct principles & improves overall mental and emotional health. Evidently, spending time with the family is key to my personal development as it promotes adaptability & resilience. Such key lessons can only be acquired by family members coaching each other regarding my life's ups & downs. So, family is what makes us who we are.

Image from: Family is not just being together physically; it's about creating connections, sharing experiences & nurturing relations
Dato' Nawawi and the 4 generations of Desa-Long Family take time to reaffirm the incredible bonds that tie them together & make them stronger. Pix: Syahrin

These strong bonds can provide a sense of security and stability, helping us navigate through the challenges we face. I realize family relationships provide resources that can help an individual cope with stress, engage in healthier behaviors, and enhance self-esteem. When family members engage in activities together and share experiences, it reinforces their collective identity. This helps to shape individuals' values, beliefs, and cultural heritage, providing a real profound sense of purpose & belonging. Ultimately, I discovered the power of family togetherness gives me the strength and support I need to succeed.

I am convinced that a strong family is the glue binding each individual to the world. The strongest people are those backed by a loving family. Our family togetherness is the driving force behind a loving heart. One of the greatest gifts a family can offer is unconditional support no matter what when we need it most. Strong families are the foundation of a strong communities & societies. Families come in all shapes, sizes, and each one is unique in its own way.

Image from: Family is not just being together physically; it's about creating connections, sharing experiences & nurturing relations
Bridegroom to be Aizat (4th from right) with (L-R) cousins: Cikgu Badrul, Jamaluddin, Datin E, aunty Rahmah, his dad Dato' Nawawi, cousins: Dato' Sirajuddin & Dr. Zul. Pix: Zarina

Last Sunday 30 Nov, my big family (Rumpun Desa-Long) assembled at my cousin, Datin Khairiah's residence at Presint 10 Putrajaya, for our uncle, Dato' Nawawi's countdowns of his son, Aizat Nizar's grand wedding reception scheduled on 28th December, 2025 at Dewan Perdana FELDA Kuala Lumpur. The countdowns meeting discussed through timeline checklists using specific timers for planning, preparations, the dry run in generating real excitements.


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