The government of a north-east state in Malaysia has offered free "second" honeymoon to couples who are at the brink of divorce. Ashaari Idris, a government official in Terengganu, said that troubled couples would be offered to spend two nights at one of the state's scenic island resorts.
"Before marriage, all was good. But after marriage, some are unable to cope with the new challenges," Ashaari told AFP. He says that this programme is aiming to strengthen family ties.
"I want to strengthen family ties. If a marriage breaks down, it will hurt the children and it will have serious implications on society." he says.
Those who wish to take part will have to apply, undergo an interview and commit to marital counselling. So far, 25 couples have volunteered to participate in a pilot project and undergone counselling on Monday.
Under Islam, divorce is allowed but not encouraged, with the Prophet Mohammed saying divorce was, in the eyes of God, the most distasteful lawful act.Ashaari said that the Muslim-majority north-eastern state has one of the lowest divorce rate in Malaysia, however, no official data has been disclosed.
Picture courtesy of Terengganu Tourism Board
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i like they're encouraging people to take marital counselling.
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