Finally Back in the Fold: Shaun Chen’s Long‑Haul Reunion Odyssey
After two years of quarantine‑induced longing, the Singapore‑Malaysia Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) finally let the Luz family cross borders, and the 43‑year‑old actor Shaun Chen was ready to meet his elders after a 22‑month hiatus. What was meant to be a weekend family outing turned into an 8‑hour adventure that proved the saying “good things come to those who wait” is true, even when it’s a long car ride.
Planes, Tests, and the “What’s Next?” Queue
- Nov 30 – Shaun, wife Celine, and daughters Nellie (6) and Neia (3) hop on a one‑hour flight to Kuala Lumpur. They touch down at 3:30 pm.
- The lobby turns into a fast‑track laboratory as everyone dashes to a compulsory antigen rapid test. The queue, the paperwork, the test itself – all add up to a solid three hours.
- By the time the family leaves the testing area, it’s already past 7 pm. They grab a quick bite, then fire up the car for the 2‑hour drive back to Seremban.
- They arrive around 10 pm – 8 hours of travel, but at least they’re home.
A Tale of Age, Gratitude, and One Minor Stroke
Shaun admits the two parents have gotten a little older.
“My mum looks thinner now, but she’s in good health. She can’t really move around too much, but she’s got a trusty walking stick that’s seen more of the city than I have,” he explains, chuckling softly. His dad melts into a silent grin; he doesn’t need a long pep talk, just a warm hug to feel the moment.
More than a simple visit, the reunion shed light on the family’s health saga:
- Mom’s leg issues make everyday errands a little shaky.
- She survived a minor stroke and a heart bypass operation – talk about the battles she’s fought!
- High cholesterol and diabetes add their own drama, but the family shows that love, trust, and a good laugh can beat the odds.
- In a quiet family moment, Shaun describes his mom’s eyes as filled with gratitude – and that’s the family’s secret sauce.
“It’s All About the Family Circus,” Shaun Says
He jokes that the journey felt like a circus: “We’re juggling planes, tests, kids’ antics, and a few tears (mostly from mothers). But the point? To see them again, to hug firm, to appreciate the small victories.”
In short, Shaun Chen’s 8‑hour trek from the airport to his doorstep underscored the enduring bond that waits on the other side of passports. Even if the trip took hours, the solace of having loved ones back in a warm, sweaty hug – stomach growls and all – is worth every minute.
Celebrating his daughter’s birthday in Malaysia and future plans
Family Fun in Malaysia
Low‑Key Visits During a High‑Note Pandemic
While Shaun was in Malaysia, he made the most of the time with his relatives. He admitted the visits were low‑key – the pandemic still makes big get‑togethers feel like a “no‑go zone.”
Nellie’s Birthday Bash
His sister kicked off a little party for 6‑year‑old Nell – a celebration instead of a full‑blown carnival.
Instagram Confession (in Chinese)
On Monday, Dec 6, Shaun posted a sweet message on Instagram (in Chinese) to his wife:
- “Today is the happiest day for my wife and I. Mum and Dad wish you happiness and good health. May you excel in your studies. You’ll be in Primary 1 next year.”
Feel free to imagine the post in all its heartfelt charm.
Future Plans: Work vs. Christmas Cheer
When asked about spending the holidays, Shaun revealed that his wife and daughters will stay in Malaysia until Jan 2, 2022. He’s also gearing up for his next thriller, Geylang, so he’ll head back to Singapore at the end of December to prep. The big question: can he hug his family over Christmas?
- “It depends on whether I need to head back earlier for work. I haven’t bought the ticket and I haven’t decided yet,” Shaun said, leaving the holiday plans a bit of a cliffhanger.
TL;DR
Shaun’s family time in Malaysia is cozy, Nellie’s birthday is celebrated, Instagram cheers are posted, and the future is a mix of work hustle and holiday hopes. Stay tuned for the final answer on whether Christmas will be a family affair.
