PETALING JAYA, Feb 16 — Financial burdens are becoming heavier for some middle-income Malaysians who are caring for both their children and parents.

Housewife Jennifer Lee, 35, said it has been a handful caring for her three young sons while having to care for her in-laws.

“My father-in-law finished his EPF savings despite him not splurging and he has been living off us for the last five years. It has put a strain on my marriage as my husband and I are struggling with our finances to save for our children and our retirement,” she said.

“My husband has taken up a part-time job as a tutor and he has been spending less time with our children. If the situation gets worse, I am considering going back into the workforce. Times are getting from bad to worse.”

Malay Mail reported yesterday that tough times may be in store for Malaysians in their 30s or 40s who are looking after both their young and old, with no time to care for themselves.

Video editor Shah Rizal Hussain, 29, said he has been feeling the financial pinch from expenses for his parents and his newly-born son.

“Looking at the situation, while my wife is still in confinement, I may need to look for a part-time job to support my family,” he said.

He added that he was grateful his parents were healthy but hoped the government would come up with a comprehensive plan for the elderly.

Administrator M. Sivanandam, 43, said it was becoming increasingly difficult to care for both his children and his parents.

He added that his father needed dialysis every week besides constant check ups and medication while his children are still studying.

“Both my wife and I have been working hard to make ends meet but it is a struggle with the cost of living being so high,” he said.

He is also a part-time driver, a job he has taken up to cope financially.

He also urged the government to put more emphasis on elderly care facilities like in Australia and New Zealand, citing his sister-in-law’s mother who stays in a retirement village in Melbourne and gets regular health checks.

Lee May Yen, a 38-year-old auditor, said she has difficulties taking care of both her children and her in-laws as her job takes up most of her time.

“I am doing my best to find time to nurture my children and at the same time make sure my in-laws are healthy and happy. At times, I feel like I am going crazy and need a break. Not to be selfish, but I do not have any time for myself. My husband is also in the same boat,” she said.

“We can’t just let go of our responsibilities and think of ourselves. It would be good if the government could provide good facilities for the elderly, especially for those who need medical treatment. I am thankful that my in-laws are still in good health and they help in taking care of my children.”

Anita Adnani, a 50-year-old legal clerk, said she did not have difficulties raising her daughter and taking care of her in-laws.

“It is all about proper financial planning, having the right perspective and willingness to sacrifice your time to keep one’s family united,” she said.

“I am thankful that my in-laws are simple people as they do not mind getting their medical check ups at government hospitals and are also thrifty in general.”

Agnes Tan, 26, a housewife, said her parents have told her to ‘’save whatever her husband earns’’.

“They told me that money is more important for my husband and I. But I still give them some money as a token of appreciation whenever I come back to visit them from Singapore,” said the mother of two.

She said that she has considered moving back to Kuala Lumpur when her parents are older to take care of them.