Why were single parents hardest hit by the MCO lockdown?

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Single Parents Faced Disproportionate Hardship During MCO Lockdown

Single parents bore the brunt of Malaysia's Movement Control Order (MCO) lockdown, which commenced on March 18. The closure of non-essential businesses, including childcare centres and kindergartens, significantly disrupted their ability to manage work and childcare responsibilities. This situation was exacerbated by the fact that many single parents, despite the lack of or reduced services, continued to bear the financial burden of paying for childcare and school fees.
Disruption to Childcare and Education

The mandatory closure of childcare centres and kindergartens left many single parents without essential support systems for their children. This absence forced them to juggle full-time work with childcare and household chores simultaneously, often described as a "nightmare" or "draining" experience. For instance, CY, a business consultant, had to manage her son's care and education at home after his kindergarten closed and her cleaner was unable to come. Similarly, Abigail Lo, a marketing and communications professional, found it challenging to manage her four-year-old son's needs while working, cleaning, and cooking, as his kindergarten was not operating.
Increased Financial Strain and Logistical Challenges

The lockdown imposed significant financial and logistical strains on single-parent households. Many faced difficulties with essential tasks like grocery shopping, with some being denied entry to supermarkets with their children due to restrictions on the number of people allowed per family. Angela, a single mother of a two-year-old, recounted being refused entry to a grocery store with her child, highlighting the lack of understanding for her circumstances. This increased reliance on costly food delivery services, as seen with Angela, who reported daily food expenses of around RM50, a substantial increase from her usual monthly spending. Despite these challenges, the mothers in the Klang Valley shared that they continued to pay daycare and school fees, even when services were minimal or non-existent.
Lack of Flexibility and Support Systems

The rigid implementation of MCO rules often overlooked the unique circumstances of single-parent families. Sonia, a doctor, faced issues entering supermarkets with her child due to restrictions that did not account for single parents needing to accompany their dependents. This highlighted a broader need for flexibility in regulations. Abigail Lo, also vice-chair of the "ibu Family Resource Group," pointed out that single parents felt invisible in policy-making, with single fathers being even less represented. She suggested that policymakers should identify the specific needs of single parents, offering flexibility in working hours and locations, alongside financial assistance or discounts on essential services. CY also advocated for policies to acknowledge "atypical" households like those headed by single parents, suggesting employers could grant leave in lieu to ease the burden.

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Why were single parents hardest hit by the MCO lockdown?

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