Father’s role important in shielding children from social ills as Madani govt bolsters family‑focused policies, says DPM Fadillah

The role of fathers in shielding children from social ills has been highlighted by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, who emphasized the importance of a strong and effective fatherly presence in preventing children from being drawn into destructive behaviors and values. In a speech delivered at the 2026 National Father's Day celebration, Fadillah stressed that fathers must be present not only as providers, but also as moral guides, attentive listeners, and role models in shaping character, discipline, and resilience.

Background & Context

The Madani Government has always placed the family institution at the core of national strength, recognizing its pivotal role in shaping the future of the nation. As part of its efforts to build stable families and a harmonious society, the government has launched the National Family Compassion Policy (Dasar KASIH Keluarga Negara), which aims to strengthen family institutions in the country. The policy serves as a guide in realizing the aspirations of a harmonious, prosperous, and morally upright society.

In today's complex and rapidly changing world, the influence of social media, rising cost of living, and increasing demands on family life make it essential for fathers to be actively involved in their children's lives. The pressures of modern life can have a profound impact on family dynamics, making it crucial for fathers to be present and supportive.

Key Details

Fadillah emphasized that the Madani Government has prioritized efforts to empower parenting, particularly fathers' involvement in children's upbringing and education. He noted that the National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN) has developed a new Fatherhood Module in 2025, which places emphasis on modern parenting skills such as leadership, psychological wellbeing, effective communication, and the use of social support networks. The module aims to help fathers carry out their roles more effectively, in line with the aspirations of the National KASIH Family Agenda.

Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Lim Hui Ying stated that the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development (KPWKM) is committed to empowering men through the MEN Empowerment Network (MEN). The strategic network, which brings together expertise from 20 non-governmental organizations (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 and remove the stigma associated with seeking help.

What Experts Say

The Deputy Prime Minister's emphasis on the importance of fatherhood in shaping the next generation is a welcome development in the country's efforts to build strong and stable families. The recognition of the role of fathers in preventing children from being drawn into social ills and destructive behaviors is a crucial step in addressing the root causes of social problems. By empowering fathers to take on a more active role in their children's lives, the government can help create a more harmonious and prosperous society.

Key Takeaways

• The Madani Government has prioritized efforts to empower parenting, particularly fathers' involvement in children's upbringing and education.
• The National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN) has developed a new Fatherhood Module in 2025, which places emphasis on modern parenting skills.
• The Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development (KPWKM) is committed to empowering men through the MEN Empowerment Network (MEN).
• Various training programmes on conflict management, parenting skills, and mental health will be implemented to help men manage life pressures and remove the stigma associated with seeking help.

What This Means For You

The emphasis on fatherhood in the country's efforts to build strong and stable families has significant implications for parents and caregivers. By taking an active role in their children's lives, fathers can help shape their character, discipline, and resilience, and prevent them from being drawn into social ills and destructive behaviors. This is not only beneficial for individual families but also contributes to the creation of a more harmonious and prosperous society.

As parents and caregivers, it is essential to recognize the importance of fatherhood in shaping the next generation. By supporting and empowering fathers to take on a more active role in their children's lives, we can help create a brighter future for our nation.