KUALA LUMPUR: Famous producer and director Datuk Yusof Haslam advises husbands to set aside their egos and focus on patience, tolerance, and understanding, to sustain a harmonious household.
According to Yusof, persuading a sullen wife is essential, and embracing humility is key to resolving marital issues constructively.
"Patience and tolerance are essential in marriage, and persuading one's spouse shouldn't be seen as a sign of weakness.
"Some men think that if you persuade your wife, it means you've lost. I believe that's the wrong perspective. "I don't claim to be perfect, but my marriage has endured because I value the importance of gentle persuasion," he told BH Online.
Drawing from personal experience, Yusof added that he inherited this approach from his late father, who was known for his empathetic nature.
"When my father and mother had conflicts, he would always be the first to make amends. I've been practicing the same approach in my marriage for the past 41 years.
"For a marriage to work, the husband should take the lead in resolving issues and let go of ego. Holding onto pride only deepens conflicts and obstructs happiness," he said.
Yusof added that reconnecting with a partner doesn't require grand gestures like flowers or gifts, as heartfelt words are often more meaningful.
"I use sweet words instead of material gifts. If issues remain unresolved, then flowers are of no use.
"Women sometimes hold back on acknowledging their mistakes, so a gentle, understanding approach from the husband can often help mend things.
"True love is not about one-sided happiness, both partners should strive to make the other happy," he said.
Reflecting on his long marriage, Yusof humbly clarified that he doesn't see himself as a perfect role model but simply wants to offer advice from his experience.
"I'm not claiming to be a flawless example, I just want to share what I've learned as a parent who has navigated marriage for over four decades."
Yusof also touched on the topic of divorce among celebrities, which he says often garners exaggerated public attention.
"It's not just celebrities experiencing marital breakdowns, divorce is common in all circles.
"However, it's more noticeable among public figures, and that draws attention.
"This year has seen several high-profile divorces, like Diana Danielle's news. It's saddening because many of us were glad when they reconciled," he said.
Earlier, the entertainment world was stirred by a series of celebrity breakups.
Couples who recently announced their separations include Nora Danish and Nedim Nazri, Fattah Amin and Nur Fazura, Harith Iskander and Dr Jezamine Lim, and Datuk Fazley Yaakob and Azrene Soraya Ahmad, while Diana Danielle surprised many by revealing her intention to divorce for the second time.