PENAMPANG: Parents, particularly fathers, have been urged to spend more quality time with their children as their presence plays a vital role in emotional development and character building.
Women, Health and Community Wellbeing Minister Datuk Julita Majungki said fathers are not only breadwinners but also mentors, protectors and role models who instil values, discipline and self-confidence in their children.
She urged fathers to be present in their children's lives by providing emotional support, guidance and daily inspiration, adding that children emulate what they see from their parents.
Julita said this when officiating the 2026 State-Level Father’s Day Celebration themed “Sehebat Kasih Bapa” on Friday, while encouraging fathers to support one another in overcoming the challenges of parenthood and family life.
She said the State Government, through the Ministry of Women, Health and People’s Wellbeing, would continue working with the National Population and Family Development Board and other stakeholders to strengthen family institutions through education, community development and parental support programmes.