KUALA LUMPUR: Divorce doesn't have to spell the end of a strong family connection.
Singer and celebrity chef, Datuk Fazley Yaakob, recently emphasised that despite his separation from Azrene Soraya Abdul Aziz, their family dynamic remains harmonious.
"I believe divorce isn't the end of love or family ties. It doesn't mean the children have to suffer," Fazley, 46, said in a voice recording shared with the media yesterday.
"We live by the saying, 'not all that's bitter is poison, and not all that's sweet is honey.' Life goes on, and the children understand and respect our decision."
Fazley noted that since the divorce, their family routine hasn't changed.
"Azrene, the children, and I still spend time together, just as we did before. We eat out, watch movies, and continue to maintain a strong family bond."
Although no longer husband and wife, Fazley said the essence of their family life remains as it was during their 18 years of marriage.
Their children—Ahmad Fariedz Shah, 15; Ahmad Fieradz Shah, 14; Ahmad Fierudz Shah, 13; and Alayna Selma, 7—feel no change in the family dynamics, he added.
"Our Whatsapp group is still active, and we still enjoy meals at the same places."
Fazley also expressed gratitude to the media for reporting on their separation respectfully, without sensationalising it.
He also thanked them for understanding the family's need for privacy.
The couple, who married in 2006, announced their divorce yesterday, but the reasons and details surrounding their split remain private.
Despite this, Fazley and Azrene's commitment to co-parenting and maintaining family unity continues to be a priority.