The first-time father tells us what he loves about being a parent
On February 29, 2020, Marcus Teo and Juvene Goh held their newborn baby girl for the first time.
Three weeks later, Malaysia went into lockdown after rising Covid-19 infections in the country. For many of us, the months preceding the nation's battle against the Covid-19 pandemic remain a blur in light of so many changes. But for Marcus and Juvene, 2020 will always be special as the year that baby Alaia Ziyi Teo was born—and on a leap day no less.
We recently caught up with proud dad Marcus Teo ahead of his second Father's Day in lockdown for a chat on finding his footing in fatherhood, and the "blind faith" that every new parent needs in this stage in their lives.
So, how has your first year of fatherhood been?
It has been surreal! I still get up in the morning and go, 'Oh my, I’m a father!' Alaia has not only brought joy to us but she has been a great teacher to me. She has given me a purpose-driven life on how I should set my future and has become more of an accountability partner. She's given me goals and kept me grounded daily.
How have you changed since Alaia came into your life?
I’m not sure if it’s age or priorities that have changed more. I realise now that having a lot of material possessions doesn't concern me as much. I’m more focused on making sure that the family can have a better life ahead. What used to be important does not feel the same now.
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