I wonder if this is where they got the idea for the newly-released movie, Couples Retreat. In hopes of slowing the state’s soaring divorce rates, Terengganu, in north-east Malaysia, is offering troubled couples a three-day “second honeymoon” free of charge at one of its gorgeous beaches. The offer is worth about US$440, and interested couples must apply, interview and agree to marital counseling. So far, the Muslim-majority state has already done a pilot program with 25 couples, attempting to mend relationships on the brink of divorce.
“I want to strengthen family ties. If a marriage breaks down, it will hurt the children and it will have serious implications on society,” Ashaari Idris, a government official in Terengganu, said.
Growing up in Singapore–just an hour away from Malaysia–I can personally attest to the soothing power of Malaysia’s amazing beaches. But I wonder if it’s really possible to fix a rocky marriage in just three days??
Suzie
