From luxury hotel stays to heartfelt handwritten wishes, Malaysians share how they are celebrating Mother’s Day across different budgets and traditions.
PETALING JAYA: As Malaysians prepare to celebrate Mother’s Day this weekend, many are balancing appreciation for their mothers with financial realities, leading to a mix of modest yet meaningful gifts and higher-end luxury spending.
In many Malaysian households, Mother’s Day often comes with the same familiar response from mothers: “Why spend money?”
Yet every year, children across different income groups continue finding ways to express appreciation, whether through budget-friendly gifts, handwritten notes, simple meals or premium luxury treats.
For 43-year-old Nurul Hayati Abdullah, Mother’s Day is often marked by meaningful, high-end treats that go beyond material value, focusing instead on shared experiences with her mother.
She said one of her preferred ways to celebrate is by taking her mother on a two-night stay at a five-star hotel, describing it as an experience that goes beyond simply making her happy.
“It is not only to make her happy, but also to build memories together.”
Nurul Hayati added that preparations are usually made in advance, although not too early.
“It depends. Sometimes we plan ahead, rarely last minute. At least a week before.”
When it comes to choosing gifts, she said she tends to lean towards items her mother genuinely enjoys.
“She loves handbags and clothes, so I will get her both,” she said, adding that her spending typically ranges between “a thousand or two” ringgit for the occasion.
Despite the higher spending, Nurul Hayati said the emotional response remains the most meaningful part of the celebration.
“For me, it is the unwavering love. Seeing her smile makes my world feel better.”
She added that her mother’s reaction is often simple but deeply meaningful.
“Big smiles and big thanks from her.”
At the same time, Nurul Hayati stressed that she prioritises practicality when selecting gifts, ensuring they are items her mother can use for a long time.
“I prefer buying reasonable and practical things that she can keep using. That way, it feels worth it.”
She also said she does not feel pressured to overspend for Mother’s Day, viewing it instead as a dedicated moment of appreciation.
Reflecting on the meaning behind the occasion, she described Mother’s Day as a reminder of the sacrifices mothers make in raising their children.
“It is about appreciating all the efforts, honouring the blood, sweat and tears poured into raising children to where we are today. Motherhood is not easy, after all. Trust me,” said Nurul Hayati, who is also a mother of four.
Meanwhile, for 26-year-old Naja Nabihah Zulkeflee, Mother’s Day celebrations are usually kept relatively budget-friendly rather than extravagant, although she jokingly added that she hopes to “get rich soon” to afford more lavish gifts in the future.
She said her go-to presents include flowers, chocolate bouquets, scarves, prayer-wear, handbags or treating her mother to a nice meal.
While she often plans ahead, she admitted that preparations do not always go smoothly.
“Sometimes I plan ahead but there are times I end up panic-buying at the last minute.”
Despite the modest approach, she said some of the simplest gifts have often triggered the most heartfelt reactions from her mother.
“Sometimes, even the simplest gifts can make her really emotional and happy.
“My mum would say things like: ‘You really did not have to go through all this trouble, even just a simple wish is enough. Are you not trying to save money? Thank you, dear. I love you!’”
She added that such moments often make her realise that the emotional value of the gesture outweighs the price tag.
“No gift could ever compare to everything she has done for me.”
Although one of the more meaningful gifts she has given her mother was a handbag, Naja believes Mother’s Day does not need to be defined by spending.
“Our mums do not really care whether the gift is cheap or expensive. As long as their children have them in thoughts, that is enough.”
READ MORE:
An Amalfi escape for Mum: Indulge at IL Forno this Mother’s Day
Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur rolls out curated dining experiences for Mother’s Day
