There are many versions to the saying of “Behind every successful man,” but it always comes down to a female presence. More than ever in the current climate of female empowerment there’s never a better time to celebrate and acknowledge women and their magic touch – it’s more than sugar, spice and everything nice. For International Women’s Day, we turned the tables and handed the mic to the gentlemen, for a heartwarming tribute of the beloved females who bring out the better men in them. From short and sweet, to heartfelt dedications, here’s what they have to say:

1. Tan Shen Wain

Tatler Asia
Above Photo: @aisanlim/Instagram

"The women in my life have given and shown me unconditional love but my daughters, foremost, with their generous smile, laughter, hugs, love and kisses inspires me everyday to stay on the course and to be better man."

Read also: Tan Shen Wain & Lim Ai San On Taking On Love And Life As A Team

2. Datuk Kelvin Tan

Tatler Asia
Above Photo: Courtesy of Datuk Kelvin Tan

"My mother is big-heartedly selfless. To me, her shoe is just too big for me to fill—what I’ve accomplished so far is so minuscule as compared to what she has done for me and for our family. She keeps me grounded and is a constant reminder that there’s still a long way for me to go! I love you Mom, to infinity and beyond.”

See also: Watch: 28 Anniversary Cover To Cover Icon, Datuk Kelvin Tan

3. Bryan Loo

Tatler Asia
Above Photo: Courtesy of Bryan Loo

“My mother's selfless act for the family is what made me who I am today. We (my sister, brother and myself) are her best friends and today, our children have taken over that role, too."

See also: Bryan Loo, On The Importance Of Friendship & Family Bonds

4. Datuk Wan Fusil Wan Mahmood

Tatler Asia
Above Photo: Malaysia Tatler

"I’ve learned a great many things from my mother, sisters, wife, and daughters. They surprise and inspire me in different ways; there is no doubt that I would not be the man I am today if it were not for them. If I were to distill it, it would be that they are my everyday reminders to live life with compassion and courage. And that anything in this world can be understood and appreciated from different perspectives."

5. Datuk Wira Faisal Nasimuddin

Tatler Asia
Above Photo: Courtesy of Faisal Nasimuddin

"One person that truly deserves a shoutout, is my source of inspiration, a shoulder to lean on and my rock—a person I am so proud to call Mak.

Even though she doesn’t say much, her actions tell it all. She has the biggest heart and the kindest soul. She teaches me to perservere and forgive, to always be kind to others no matter what and to always, always stay humble. With her countless support, prayers and blessings, I have evolved into the person I am today. 

After the passing of my late father, my siblings and I were left to carry on his legacy, the Naza Group of Companies. It was my mother who kept the family together through our most trying times. She put aside her own emotions and kept a strong front for the five of us, to show us that we can be strong enough to overcome any obstacles thrown our way. I can never thank you enough, Mak, for being there for me throughout my hardest trials and my happiest moments. You inspire me to be better every single day.

Here's to every mother, daughter and woman who deserve to be loved and respected. Thank you for inspiring us and doing what you do everyday. Happy International Women's Day!"

See also: Datuk Wira Faisal Nasimuddin Awarded 'Grand Ufficiale' Honour By President Of Italy

Topics