SHAH ALAM, Nov 6 — Couples experiencing marital conflicts are advised to seek counselling early to prevent problems from escalating and damaging their relationships.
The Selangor Counselling Centre's (PKS) coordinator Faridah Abdul Jalil @ Abas said support services can provide a space to identify the root causes of problems and find solutions, rather than being sought only when a relationship is on the verge of breaking down.
Disagreements that seem minor can become serious when they recur without resolution, gradually creating a rift between partners.
“Do not wait until conflicts become too serious before taking steps to improve the relationship. Sometimes, when conflicts arise, we become so preoccupied with defending our own views that we no longer truly listen to what our partners are trying to communicate,” she told Media Selangor.
PKS records indicate that 187 clients sought services for marital issues, involving 360 counselling sessions, from 2025 to September this year.
For family-related issues, 145 clients were recorded, involving 245 sessions. The marital category involves husbands and wives, while family-related issues include matters such as interference from in-laws.
Faridah, also a psychology officer, said communication in marriage is not simply about talking; it also requires partners to learn to listen to understand one another.
Couples also needed to be accommodating, as each partner came from a different background and had distinct experiences, personalities, and ways of thinking.
“Marriage is not about making two people the same, but about learning to live together with those differences. Partners should complement each other rather than demand perfection from one another,” she said.
PKS provides free counselling services to the public, including individuals and couples facing marital and family-related issues.
Faridah added that the service is open to those seeking early assistance to understand their problems, manage their emotions, and improve their relationships.
In addition to formal counselling sessions, members of the public who need initial support can contact the SEHAT helpline, operated by PKS personnel.
“PKS does not determine who is right or wrong in a relationship. Instead, it provides a safe, professional, and non-judgemental space.
“Through counselling, couples can take a pause from their conflicts, understand what is really happening, and reassess their relationship from a more objective perspective,” she said.
