The results for this year’s Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examinations were recently released, much to the students’ relief (or disappointment).
Although it is often a nerve-racking time for the students themselves, it can sometimes also get to the parents.
Recently, a Malaysian student expressed sadness after their parents were disappointed with their results despite getting 6As.
The student’s woes were shared by netizen Fedtri Yahya who shared them on his Twitter account.
In a screenshot of the student’s message, the student said they were happy to see that they had achieved good results.
“During trials, I got 4As and 2Gs. But thankfully, for SPMs, I got 6As in total with no Gs. I thought my parents would be proud,” they wrote.
“When I called my mum, all she said was ‘why so little As?’. When I got home, all I did was cry. Why couldn’t she congratulate me or say she was proud of me?”
The student added that they were envious of those who didn’t get great results but had supportive and understanding parents.
“I hope parents out there are proud of their children’s achievements. It is said that parents impact their children’s emotions,” they added.
Netizens share similar experiences
The post has garnered attention and currently has over 5,484 likes and 2,060 retweets. Plenty of Malaysians took to the comments section to share their experiences facing disappointed parents.
“Before my school gave me my results, I checked online that I got 4As. I was so happy to tell my father because I was proud to achieve that despite not feeling well during the exam week.”
“But my dad looked at me disapprovingly and wanted to go home. My teachers asked him if he wanted to celebrate by taking pictures, but he didn’t want to,” said a user.
Another user commented, “I’ve never gotten a ‘congratulations’ throughout my life from my family despite doing well in my studies. But it doesn’t matter. What matters is that WE recognise our (own) achievements.“
“I have been experiencing this kind of reaction from my parents since I was a kid until now – and I am 28 years old. Of course, it hurts so bad, but nevertheless I don’t want my younger siblings to feel what I felt. Every time they told me of their achievements, I’ll praise and treat them to something,” commented another netizen.
Some users sided with the parents
Meanwhile, some netizens sided with the parents and tried to defend them.
One user commented, “The mum is proud. But she has an ego and doesn’t know how to show care and love… on the inside, she must be feeling proud and telling (of the accomplishment to) her friends, neighbours and siblings.”
“Your success is a result of the prayers of your mother,” commented another user.
Although it is important to be critical of one’s success, but a congratulations when it’s due is always important for one’s sense of pride and accomplishment.
Have you ever experienced something similar? Let us know in the comments.
Also read: M’sian Student TOTALLY Skipped All His SPM Exams, Netizens React With Horror