It is always inspiring to see couples continue to love each other as if it’s day one. Some continue to shower their partner with roses, while others prepare meals—as if it were the first day of their relationship. However, for some, love can be a difficult challenge. Regardless, love is what makes a person whole and provides a sense of happiness and life contentment.
Stories of romance, distance,devotion
They say that love is in the air every Valentine’s Day. But after years of spending the occasion with the same person, or spending it apart from the same person, what does it take to keep the love alive? Sarawak Tribune speaks to several couples on the street about how to rekindle love after years together and across distances.
Olga Ingan, 31
I have been with my boyfriend for eight years. In the beginning, everything was filled with excitement. We wanted to do everything together, going on adventures like hiking and discovering new places. We were quite the adventurous type. We wouldn’t skip celebrating our birthdays, and every Valentine’s Day, we would explore different cuisines to enjoy together.
But after a while, the excitement and desire to try new things together faded. It is not to say that our feelings have faded; rather, it is the sense that as long as we have each other, everything is good and well. Now, we prefer to stay at home. Coincidentally, we share the same hobby — we love to play games, and that is how we spend time together now. These days, we don’t go out to try different types of food. Even if we eat together, simple home-cooked meals are good enough.
Joseph Tan, 26
As a couple, we spend quality time together to keep the love alive. One example is having dinner together and chatting throughout. We also show affection through physical touch—simple gestures such as holding hands, hugging, and cuddling are enough!
Throughout our time together, expressing gratitude and appreciation reminds us of the value we bring to each other’s lives. On special days, we never fail to give each other gifts, such as flowers, cakes, and chocolates.
Terence Aaron, 34, and Kathleen Gwen
This is actually our first Valentine’s Day apart. Prior to this, we didn’t hold specific dates sacred because we thought we would always have time for each other and could reschedule. But then opportunities arose elsewhere. It was only a matter of time, as we knew our professions and backgrounds meant there would come a period when we might have to spend time apart.
Experiencing a long-distance relationship for the first time meant that not having the other person around during important dates became more noticeable. So ironically enough, we decided to do something for Valentine’s. The plan is to go to a restaurant or order food we think the other person would like, then have a video call and pretend we’re having a fancy dinner together. We do plan to meet up in the near future, so we’re considering this a sneak preview of restaurants we might take each other to.
Clarice Chua, 32
My husband and I have been together since 2018, and our love has only grown stronger with each passing year. We tied the knot last year on December 9, 2024, and every day since then has felt like a celebration of our love. We don’t need a special day to express our affection for each other. For us, every day is Valentine’s Day, filled with small, meaningful moments.
Whether it’s cooking together in the kitchen, sharing a quiet evening at home, or simply enjoying each other’s company, we find joy in the everyday. We cherish these moments and make sure to prioritise our relationship amidst the chaos of life. Our love story is a testament to the fact that when you find the right person, every day feels like a celebration of love.
Davon, 31
For this Valentine’s Day, i think my girlfriend and I will mostly only spend time together at home with our furbabies . Maybe watch movie or playing games. She prefers to play games whole day. Although we’ve done those moments like romantic dinners and giving presents but still games in her mind. But as long as we care for each orher and appreciate. However i think how i keep alive our love during valentine day is to treat my love one as much love that she want
For this Valentine’s Day, I think my girlfriend and I will mostly spend time together at home with our beloved furbabies. We might watch a movie or play games — though, if it were up to her, she would prefer to play games all day. Over the years, we’ve shared many romantic moments, from candlelit dinners to exchanging presents, but for her, gaming is always the priority. Still, what truly matters is that we care for and appreciate each other.
For me, keeping our love alive on Valentine’s Day isn’t about grand gestures—it’s about making sure my loved one feels as cherished and adored as she desires. Whether it’s through simple acts of kindness or just spending quality time together, the most important thing is making her feel special.
