Father's Day: Azizulhasni Awang opens up about dad guilt
Torn between tracks and family: The untold story of dad guilt for national cyclist Azizulhasni Awang.
WHEN it comes to parenthood, maternal guilt often steals the spotlight. The image of a mother grappling with the demands of raising children, balancing work, and nurturing relationships is familiar and frequently discussed.
But there's another side to this coin that’s considerably less explored: dad's guilt.
Fathers too experience the pressures and expectations of parenting. Modern fatherhood has evolved, with men being increasingly involved in child-rearing and household responsibilities.
Similar to what working mothers experience, it’s a constant tug-of-war between career ambitions and family duties.
Dad’s guilt is no exception even if you’re a national athlete like Datuk Azizulhasni Awang. Grappling with intense public scrutiny and demanding schedules, it proves to be a challenge. This is something our cyclist hero can definitely relate to.
The 36-year-old father of four says he feels guilty having to be away for long periods throughout the year due to his tight schedule.
“I’m very close with my daughters so it’s hard when I am traveling a lot. For example, with the upcoming Olympics, I’ll be away for three months.
“It’s difficult because we do many things together when I am with them. I usually read them storybooks during bedtime.
“Thank God for technology, it allows me to stay in touch and communicate. But of course, it’s still not the same as physical interaction,” he said in an interview with Sinar Daily.
For Azizulhasni, it’s not just the guilt of being away. He feels guilty that his children have to adapt to their father’s demanding schedule.
"But that's the sacrifice we need to make," he said.
On the flipside, he embraces the journey. “What I cherish most about fatherhood is the process of raising your kids.
“Each daughter of mine has different interests, different needs and ways of connecting.
“How we raise them is a reflection of ourselves. Before I got married, I was totally different – I was a bit naughty.
“But after our kids came along, I put more focus into raising them,” he said.
Above all, fatherhood is a journey best travelled with a strong support system. Azizulhasni has never been shy to express gratitude towards his wife, Datin Athiah Ilyana Abd Samat.
“Having the right partner is vital because if I married someone who doesn’t understand what I do, it will be difficult.
“Athletes need to train everyday and stay focused beyond training hours. This includes consuming proper nutrition and getting enough rest.
“I have my struggles too, so it’s important to have someone who will support you all the way,” he said.
Azizulhasni is set to compete at the 2024 Paris Olympics in what could possibly be his final appearance at the Games.
