Preparing breakfast, doing laundry, driving his wife to work, taking the kids to school, hanging clothes, cleaning the house, and cooking meals are the daily tasks of a man who, after serving 15 years in the Navy, chose to become a househusband.

At 49, Mohamad Azman retired as a Petty Officer. Despite being teased about being "afraid of his wife," he insists he's not offended by such remarks.

Hailing from Kampung Banggol Chicha in Besut, Terengganu, Azman describes his role as a househusband as a wonderful experience. It allows him to lighten the load for his wife, who works as a nurse, and spend more time with their children.

Reflecting on his Navy years, Azman shares that he missed out on family time for 13 years. Now retired, he cherishes every moment with his five children, aged between 8 and 24.

"The most fulfilling part is knowing that my wife can come home and rest after a hard day at the hospital. Besides taking the family to work and school, I also get to supervise the kids' studies," he says.

Proudly, Azman notes his children's achievements: the eldest son has completed a course in chemical engineering at Universiti Teknologi MARA, and the second son, 21, is studying accounting and finance in the UK.

Despite being a househusband, Azman also works as a rideshare driver to supplement the family income. He stresses that being a househusband does not diminish his role as the head of the household.

"For me, it's about making sure my wife and children can focus on their work and studies. I want them to live a perfect life without any burdens," Azman explains.

In another story, Goh Lee, a 45-year-old from Johor Bahru, shares his experience of taking on household responsibilities. Though initially overwhelming, he now finds being a househusband quite rewarding.

A manager for a renowned brand working from home, Goh began sharing household duties when the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2021. Over two years, despite many challenges, he has adapted to the routine.

"At first, it was tough and awkward. Now, I've overcome those hurdles, including looking after the kids, attending school events, picking them up, cleaning the house, cooking, and doing laundry," Goh recounts.

Although it's exhausting, Goh sees these tasks as part of his daily life. His wife also works but helps with household chores, particularly on weekends, by supervising the children's studies.

"I never see housework as a burden," Goh admits. "Sometimes, the overlapping schedules can be stressful, but I strive to balance work and household duties, like joining virtual meetings while doing chores."

Goh believes his efforts set a positive example for his children, teaching them the importance of building a loving family.

"Friends have mixed reactions, some admire me, while others pity me. But as the head of the family, I must do my best for my children and teach them how to create a happy home," he concludes.