Tribute to our paternal aunt this Mother's Day 2026

This Mother’s Day weekend, we turn our spotlight to our beloved Ma Um - our father’s elder brother’s wife - who, together with the rest of the family, once lived at Jalan Haji Salam near the Bedok corner (as shared in an earlier story). Hers is truly a story of triumph over adversity.

Ma Um gave birth to eleven children, yet only three survived. We can scarcely imagine the depth of sorrow and strength such circumstances demanded of her. Life with her mother-in-law presented its own challenges, but Ma Um was no pushover. She faced each day with a resolute, never‑say‑die spirit.

Against this backdrop, she discovered a passion for cooking and baking. She mastered the art of making all kinds of kueh and sold them to neighbours in the surrounding homes - out of necessity, to supplement a depleted household income. Her mantra was simple and unwavering: “Never go home until the basket is empty.” She worked with such determination that she could well be considered the family’s main breadwinner.

Even after the family moved to the HDB flats in Bukit Merah, her enterprise continued. She would bring her granddaughter from house to house, taking orders for Chinese New Year goodies. Her reputation grew so strong that from the years after, neighbours came directly to her to place their orders.

Amid these many challenges, Ma Um revealed yet more talents. She had a green thumb - anything she planted in her garden bore fruit. Family circumstances led her to learn sewing and knitting, skills she put to constant use for her loved ones. And perhaps most charmingly, despite all the hardships she endured, she also learned to play the accordian - and played it beautifully.

In 1992, twenty‑five years after leaving Jalan Haji Salam, Ma Um passed away at the age of 82. By then, she had become a woman who rose above adversity and, in doing so, earned the respect of everyone around her.

Ma Um, like your favourite melody, Terang Bulan, which you played so gracefully on the accordian – a song which later influenced the creation of Malaysia’s national anthem - your life moved through many cycles. In the end, like the brilliant moon, you shone brightly on all who knew you, reflecting resilience, tenacity, and quiet fortitude. That light continues to warm those of us who remember and cherish the legacy you left behind.

Sharing here a treasured photo of Ma Um and her granddaughter, taken circa 1965 in her garden at their home on Jalan Haji Salam.