Stuck in Singapore: A Malaysian Husband’s Long Wait for Family
Four months ago, Terry Mariyadas, 35, found himself miles from home, leaving his wife and two little boys in a cross‑border limbo. Every nightly video call turns into a bittersweet goodbye, complete with teary‑eyed “I love you, darling” and the uneasy reminder to eat.
Weightless Love
Terry’s wife, Kanamah Rathinasamy, 33, has shed almost 30 kg while juggling day‑to‑day caregiving for a 2‑year‑old and a baby who’s ‘almost one’. “Whenever I catch her on video, I’m like, ‘Eat something!’” he says.
Locked Second‑Floor in Singapore
Let’s call him a “senior tech” – the only breadwinner for his family. He’s been on the Singapore side of town since Malaysia’s movement control order (MCO) kicked off in mid‑March. He used to motorbike across the border every day; now, the road is closed. He’s living the Four Seasons lifestyle, which (surprise!) is his employer’s accommodation.
When Will He See the Family?
There’s talk of a reciprocal green lane and a new “periodic commuting” deal, but nobody’s saying when Terry can roll back into Johor Baru. He’s holding his breath and praying for a reunion soon. “All I want is to hug my boys—just a few days in home feels like forever,” he confides.
From the Wrong Side of the Border
After missing his mother’s funeral in May, Terry’s regret lingers. He’ll be praying to finally put his apology to the right side of the grave before he’s forced to leave again. “The first thing on my list when I return is to visit her tombstone. I need to tell her I’m sorry I couldn’t send her off,” he says.
What’s Next? Six‑Month Birthday Bash
In August, his youngest is turning one. Terry’s on edge about missing that milestone. Until then, he keeps his wife entertained with a fake overseas job story, “I’m busy in the Middle East or the UK, and I can only swing home once a year.” It’s his way to stay positive while waiting for the green lane opening.
Why This Story Matters
- Every month of separation amplifies the feeling of “I don’t want to miss another moment.”
- Weight loss, helplessness, and LUNG‑INSEDUR icons highlight the costs of pandemic borders.
- Possible opening of a green lane may save families who are stuck.
This piece was originally published in The Straits Times—permission for reproduction is required.
