The Story Of A Marriage Migrant
Submitted by Karamay ng Migranteng Filipino sa Penang (Companion of Filipino Migrants in Penang)
Cynthia, a 56-year-old Filipino migrant, has spent more than half of her life as a marriage migrant in Penang, Malaysia. She hails from Bacolod City, Philippines, and is one of nine siblings. Cynthia completed her degree in Education from the Philippine Christian University in 1990, which was a significant accomplishment for her.
The Foreign Spouse
Soon after their wedding, Cynthia migrated to Malaysia as a marriage migrant at the age of 25. It was an entirely new experience for her as she had to adapt to living in a foreign country with different customs and languages. However, she embraced this change and started building her life there. In 1992, Cynthia delivered her first child while still adjusting to her new life in Malaysia. The following year brought another bundle of joy into their lives when Cynthia gave birth to her second child.
Subsequently, Cynthia became a full-time housewife and mother, playing the roles of a typical marriage migrant. Despite facing some challenges initially, she tried to create a comfortable and happy home for herself and her family. Over time, she learned how to navigate through cultural differences and make friends with people from different backgrounds.
The Backstory
Foreign spouses residing in Malaysia encounter challenges when it comes to obtaining visas, seeking employment, and assimilating into society. This predicament often leads to social alienation and puts a strain on familial relationships. The process of adapting to cultural norms can be overwhelming, while bureaucratic formalities exacerbate the difficulties encountered.
The Challenges Of Living In A Foreign Country
In 1996, her husband’s enterprise faced a catastrophic downfall that led to his cardiac arrest and subsequent bypass surgery. The couple was forced to liquidate all their assets, including their savings and properties. Despite the adversity, she remained resolute in providing for her family as a Filipino accustomed to enduring difficulties. She earlier found work as a caregiver in the US for a short period but later she went back to Penang and delved into entrepreneurship alongside a fellow Filipino friend. Together they established a store that initially marketed Natasha’s products and branched out to other Filipino products.
Job Security
Cynthia encountered difficulties during her entrepreneurial pursuit, as the business was registered under her husband’s name because her spouse’s visa status did not allow her to own a business. To manage the enterprise, she had to secure a work permit and undergo three immigration inspections.
Cynthia’s experience was no different; despite possessing a spouse visa, she had trouble securing jobs even with her college degree which did not qualify her for employment within the education sector. However, with perseverance and determination, Cynthia found informal work such as nanny services, cleaning, and cooking for affluent families alongside other odd jobs.
Coping Up
Over time, she supported the establishment of (PPSA) Penang Pinoy Support Association. Cynthia gained valuable experience in coping with emotional and psychological turmoil as a result of her advocacy work. Through her efforts, she discovered a sense of purpose in supporting fellow Filipino migrants in Malaysia, a calling that she remains dedicated to today. Her experiences have equipped her with the skills and knowledge necessary to provide vital assistance to those in need, and she continues to make a meaningful impact on the lives of many individuals within her community.
Cynthia’s story highlights the struggles that many migrants face when moving abroad but also emphasizes the resilience that they possess. Today, she is proud of what she has accomplished over the years and grateful for the opportunities that came along with being a marriage migrant.