Having a balanced power dynamic among couples is important in order to maintain a healthy married life.
Unfortunately for a Malaysian man, the one-sidedness of his relationship’s power dynamics is now making him feel helpless in his own marriage.
The man took to the Kisah Rumah Tangga Facebook page to anonymously confess how his grief over how his wife takes full control of his salary and tightly manages his daily expenditure.
He wrote, “I earn RM5,000 monthly, my salary is 100% controlled by my wife. Every time, my salary of RM4,000 in cash must immediately be given to her. My commitments are about RM1,000, to pay for our house and other things.”
From his monthly salary, his wife only gives him RM6 to spend on food during his working hours and she refuses to allow him to give money to his parents.
“I’ve spoken up to my wife before, that I need to give some of my money to my parents. She answered by telling me that I have male siblings who can give them money and that I should prioritise the family I have with her.”
“I do not dare to answer back as I’m scared that it will turn into a fight, so I just keep quiet. What can I do? My wife even controls how much I spend to eat at work, which is RM6 a day to eat at the canteen,” he added.
Many have since shared their sympathies with the man, believing that he should have the right to manage his own money.
“Don’t love your wife to a point where you are suffering.”
“Pity him, he works but he doesn’t get to spend. Take back your salary and manage it yourself. Just give your wife a monthly allowance. Everything else, you settle yourself.”
“The wife is going overboard, what is she doing with the RM4,000 in cash? Ya Allah, pity the husband.”
What do you think the man should do in this situation? Do feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section.