selected item

Tip for dads: Be present and intentional

We speak to one of our active volunteers who champions a safe space and network for fathers in our Singapore affiliate.
News June 10, 2025
“Children don’t need your success, they need your presence.” 

That’s Yiew Kim Yeong’s advice to fathers trying to balance fatherhood with a career. 

This Fathers’ Day, Kim Yeong says it’s important to find the balance between being a present parent and an engaged employee. And when you have the support in your workplace, it can make all the difference.

That motivates him to build a network for dads in the company’s Parent Support Group in Singapore.

How did becoming a dad change you?

Becoming a dad changed me in several meaningful ways. It gave me a deeper sense of responsibility — not just to provide for my family, but to be the best role model I can be for my children. 

It made me more aware of my imperfections and the need for constant growth.

Fatherhood has shifted my focus from just thinking about myself, to consider what’s best for our family. It’s a daily journey of learning, leading, and loving.

How do you manage work and parenthood? Did you have to make any changes or sacrifices?

Working in a global organization brings unique challenges — especially when evenings are filled with meetings. Balancing work and parenthood require intentional effort and adjustments through the different seasons. 

I’m grateful for a workplace culture that supports work-life integration and empowers employees to take ownership of that balance. 

I also make it a point to communicate with my two kids — to let them know that even when work gets demanding, I’m doing my best to carve out time to be with them and engage in the things they enjoy. It’s not always perfect, but it’s a continuous journey of prioritizing what matters most.

What does Father’s Day mean to you?

It’s a moment to reflect on the love and care my parents gave me.

It’s also a day for me to reaffirm my commitment to my own children: to be a better father by being intentional, present, and always striving to grow. 

It’s about honoring the responsibility and privilege it carries.

 

You’re an active member of the ExxonMobil Parent Support Group in Singapore. Tell us more about how you’re making a difference for other dads in the company.

It’s often observed that mothers are more naturally inclined to share their parenting challenges and find support among one another. As a father, I recognize that many of us face similar struggles, but we may not always have the same outlets or comfort in expressing them. 

That’s why I’m passionate about creating space for dads through our Parent Support Group. It’s been encouraging to see so many dads genuinely wanting to grow and be better fathers. By building this community, I hope we can normalize these conversations and remind each other that we’re not alone in this journey.

“Being a present parent”: What does that mean to you, and how does it work in the Singapore context?

There’s a quote I often reflect on: “Children don’t need your success; they need your presence.”

To me, it’s about being there — not just physically, but mentally and emotionally — for their ups and downs, questions, struggles, and joys. 

Being present isn’t about constant correction; it’s about consistent encouragement. It’s about letting our children know that no matter what, they have a steady source of love and support to lean on.

Any pearls of wisdom for fathers?

I often think of the quote: “Every father should remember that one day his son will follow his example, not his advice.” 

Our children are always watching, and everyday moments speak louder than any words.

As fathers, we carry both the responsibility and the privilege of shaping the next generation.