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SINGAPORE: A group of prominent figures from various organisations and businesses have banded together to start up the Fathers Action Network.
The network aims to kick-start a movement called "Dads for Life" to get fathers more involved with their families, especially in their childrens' lives.
This follows a fatherhood perception survey conducted in April and May this year by the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS).
Key findings showed that 97 per cent of the respondents felt that fathers play an important role in children's development.
Of the fathers surveyed, 96 per cent indicated their wish to spend more time with their kids.
Not surprising, findings also showed that fathers spent less time with their kids as compared to mothers. On average, a dad spends about eight hours a day with his kid on a weekend as compared to over 10 hours spent by a mother.
95 per cent felt that being a father and raising children is one of the most fulfilling experiences a man can have.
Mr Richard Seow, chairman, Fathers Action Network, said: "I think it's important because we realise that fatherhood plays an integral (part) in raising children, but now we want to raise that awareness across a wider group.
"We also want to get fathers to act, to basically commit that they will spend more time with their families. And we want to, basically, roll out different programmes to help them, teach them, guide them in terms of how to be better fathers and how to be better husbands."
The survey polled some 2,200 respondents, single and married, and those who are fathers or mothers.
Currently, the network has member representatives from some 15 organisations, including the Centre for Fathering and the People's Association. It is hoping more will join the cause.
Explaining that the network is not exclusive, Mr Seow said people from all walks of life can chip in too.
The movement is supported by the National Family Council formed in 2006 to promote resilient families in Singapore. - 938LIVE/vm
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