50-year-old single dad juggles work, taking care of six kids, volunteering

At the beginning of every month, Mr Asman Abdullah, 50, arranges his and his children's schedules to find time for them to spend together as a family.

He does this as a single father who not only takes care of six of his seven children, but also actively volunteers with various organisations such as the Father's Day Out movement.

His children are aged between three and 25, all from three marriages that ended in divorce. His second child lives with his mother.

Mr Asman is responsible for cooking, cleaning, washing and ironing clothes and managing the household, without the help of others or a maid.

He told Berita Harian that the biggest challenge is balancing time and attention for each child while managing the household.

Each child has different needs and personalities, and making sure they feel valued and heard can be quite challenging.

He makes time for each child, helping them with schoolwork, playing together or simply chatting.

When they have the time, he takes his children for a stroll on the beach or they watch television at home together.

Mr Asman, who lives in a two-room flat in Jalan Kukoh, said he has to be meticulous at financial planning, ensuring there's money for the children's education, their daily expenses, medical care and special occasions such as Hari Raya.

Two of his children have health problems.

Mr Asman co-parent the children with two of his ex-wives.

"They help provide positive experiences for the children, such as buying Hari Raya clothes for the kids and taking them to visit relatives," he said.

"I need to show the children the importance of family ties and cooperation. It is important for both parents, even if separated, to ensure the children feel supported and loved, and get enough attention."

On the eve of Hari Raya, he will cook special dishes such as rendang and ketupat.

"We do it step by step to avoid feeling stressed or rushed," said Mr Asman.

"The children will do simple tasks like cleaning and decorating our home while I prepare the dishes. It makes them feel involved and excited."