Part 9/10:
The pandemic has also emphasized the importance of maintaining ties with family members. Debra Yap's experience in Sydney underscores the emotional toll of not being able to see loved ones in person—sharing her pregnancy and life updates via video call, and hoping to reunite soon. Her story exemplifies the resilience of Singaporeans who find solace in digital communication but yearn for the tangible comfort of physical presence.
In Malaysia, residents like Rizal Muhammad cherish the small joys of celebrating National Day by watching fireworks and reminiscing about their homeland. The inability to physically reunite has heightened appreciation for such simple experiences, making each virtual or distant celebration more meaningful.