KUCHING: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof has urged couples to view marriage as a lifelong commitment to continuous learning, mutual responsibility and strong family values.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of a pre-marriage course, Fadillah said the family institution is the cornerstone of society and plays a critical role in shaping responsible individuals and national development.
“The family is the most important institution in building society, developing individuals and building the nation,” he said at the closing of the Selangkah ke Jinjang Pelamin (SEKEJAP) pre-wedding course at the Islamic Information Centre (IIC) here Monday.
He stressed that marriage extends beyond fulfilling legal or religious requirements, saying couples must understand their rights and responsibilities as husband and wife to establish a harmonious family.
“Marriage is not merely about legal requirements. It is about understanding the responsibilities and rights of both husband and wife so that a family can be built on mutual respect, love and responsibility,” he said.
Fadillah, who is also Petra Jaya MP, reminded participants that while the early days of marriage would often be filled with happiness, challenges were inevitable and couples must be prepared to overcome them together.
“When everything is going well, love is sweet. But challenges will come. What is important is learning how to face those challenges, solve problems wisely and ensure the family remains strong and united,” he said.
He encouraged newlyweds to continue seeking knowledge even after marriage, noting that every stage of family life brings new experiences and responsibilities.
“Do not stop learning after you are married. Continue to seek knowledge because it will help you manage emotions, raise your children and build a harmonious family. The world is constantly changing, and we must continue to adapt,” he said.
He also encouraged couples to undergo pre-marital health screening, including blood tests, to identify hereditary health conditions such as thalassaemia or any other diseases that could affect their future children.
He said such screenings are a responsible step towards ensuring healthier families while recognising that all outcomes ultimately rest with God’s will.
Fadillah also highlighted the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI), saying technological advancement will bring new challenges that future generations must be prepared to face.
Drawing from his recent visit to Expo 2025 Osaka, he said AI is transforming many aspects of human life and interactions, underscoring the importance of equipping children with strong moral values and religious principles.
“Technology will continue to evolve, and the challenges facing our families will also change. We must prepare our children by instilling good values, strong character and faith so they can face the future with confidence,” he said.
“The ultimate goal is to build families that are happy in this world and blessed in the hereafter,” he said.
Also present at the event were Head of the Islamic Family Development Division, representing the Director of the Sarawak Islamic Religious Department (JAIS), Ustaz Suharman Edward and Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Islamic Information Centre (IIC), Tazudin Mohtar.
