Part 2/12:

For Malaysians living abroad, particularly those stranded in Singapore, the prolonged border closures have taken a heavy emotional toll. Many have been separated from their families for nearly 17 months, leading to feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety. One such individual, Wahida, a 26-year-old living in Singapore, shared her struggles. She fell into depression after being unable to visit her grandfather in Malaysia, who passed away during the pandemic. Wahida was eventually able to return home under the compassionate travel scheme but at a significant cost of about 2,500 Singapore dollars, including quarantine expenses. Her experience highlights the emotional and financial strain faced by many Malaysians abroad during this period.