For many young Malaysians, the simple ‘Good Morning’ message from a parent, usually accompanied by a flower sticker or cheerful quote, often goes unnoticed. But behind that daily routine lies an effort to connect, however small or awkward it may seem.
As children grow into young adults, conversations with parents can become strained or infrequent. What was once an easy exchange becomes a struggle to relate. Some feel their parents don’t understand them anymore, while others say there’s simply nothing to talk about. However, experts and lived experiences suggest otherwise: reconnection is not only possible, but it’s also needed.
According to a 2022 report by the Ministry of Health Malaysia, more than half (58%) of Malaysian adolescents reported having poor relationships with their parents. This lack of communication has been linked to an increase in high-risk behaviors such as substance use, self-harm, and mental health struggles.
The breakdown often occurs during adolescence, when young people begin asserting their independence. Priorities shift, peer influence grows, and family conversations are sometimes replaced by silence or misunderstandings. Parents, too, may struggle to adapt, feeling disconnected from their children’s fast-changing world.
But amidst the generational gap, shared values still exist.
“Sometimes the differences between us and our parents aren’t as vast as we think,” says Lorne Timmermans, the Chairperson of the ‘Bridge of Time’ youth-led communication campaign. “Just a glimpse at this night market bubble milk tea sparked a thought in my mind: there are certain things that change shape but never quite go out of style. At one point, they were considered trendsetters as well!”
Everyday Hidden Lessons
Even the most mundane household memories can carry unexpected insights. Take the classic example: opening a tub of ice cream, only to find it’s been repurposed to store frozen fish. To a younger self, it may seem like deception.
But as adulthood approaches, such quirks begin to make sense, revealing the creativity and practicality that shaped our family’s daily lives. The reason behind it is simple: ice cream tubs are made of durable plastic that’s designed to withstand freezer temperatures. They seal tightly, stack neatly, and are the perfect size for storing and organising food, especially fish.
What once felt like a small betrayal now reflects a generation’s resourcefulness and instinct to make the most of what they had.
Another common sight in Malaysian homes: a cupboard or drawer brimming with plastic bags neatly folded into one another. To some, it may appear excessive or outdated. However, to many parents, this simple practice was both purposeful and sustainable. It was a way to avoid waste, ensure readiness for any future need, and embody a mindset of thriftiness passed down through generations. In hindsight, it was a form of environmental consciousness, long before ‘reuse and recycle’ became a mainstream slogan.
These moments are more than cultural quirks or household clichés. They are touchpoints of shared memory, windows into our parents' values. When revisited with understanding, it transforms into powerful opportunities for reconnection across generations.
The Gentle Power of Nagging
“Ah girl, sleep early lah.” “Drink more water.” “Fold your blanket.” And once in a while, a rare, heartfelt reminder: “Don’t be afraid to fall, just try your best. Don’t worry about us.”
What may sound like every day nagging is often rooted in love, protection, and quiet encouragement. These simple reminders—though repetitive—carry lasting benefits, from improving physical well-being (like digestion and blood flow) to nurturing self-discipline. Over time, they teach self-responsibility, emotional resilience, and the importance of showing up for yourself and for those you care about.
By listening with an open heart, we can learn from our parents’ life lessons and avoid repeating the same mistakes.
The Emotional Payoff
Research shows that meaningful conversations with parents offer numerous emotional benefits. They foster stronger family bonds, build emotional resilience, and offer young people a stable source of guidance and support.
Parents aren't perfect, but many of them are doing the best they can with the tools they have. When young people take the first step to engage, it often opens a door for healing, understanding, and growth.
Asking questions, and showing curiosity about parents’ stories can help bridge the generational divide. While habits, slang, or perspectives may differ, what remains constant is the love, hope, and concern between parents and their children.
Small gestures such as listening to their favourite songs, remembering what they like to eat, or learning a treasured family recipe can open the door to meaningful connection.
Reviving Tradition, Reimagining Connection
This meaningful sharing is part the broader awareness efforts of the ‘Bridge of Time’ campaign by students of the Bachelor of Public Relations (Honours) that was held between 6 – 8 May 2025. The campaign aimed to embrace the good old days, celebrate the richness of the past, and create meaningful connections through storytelling and nostalgic experiences.
Prof Dato' Indera Ir Lee Sze Wei (centre), with Ms Chitra A/P Muthusamy (rightnmost), Associate Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Creative Industries (FCCI), and Lorne Timmermans (leftmost), Campaign Chairperson, in launching the 'Bridge of Time' campaign with a toast of freshly ‘pulled tea’—celebrating generational differences united by shared love and appreciation.
Prof Dato' Indera Ir Lee (second from left), reflects on childhood memories while exploring the contrast of comic books across generations—capturing the essence of time at the 'Good Old Days' exhibition.
Prof Dato' Indera Ir Lee (centre) takes a nostalgic trip down memory lane at the 'Timeless Happiness' concept store, peeling ‘Tikam’ to get his favourite childhood snack.
