PETALING JAYA: The engagement ceremony between Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman and actress-singer Bella Astillah has captured public attention, particularly for its unique and meaningful choice of hantaran (engagement gifts) centred on planning for the future and family wellbeing.
Departing from traditional offerings, the gifts presented by Syed Saddiq were not merely symbolic but carried a deeper message of responsibility, stability and long-term financial planning.
They also highlighted the couple’s commitment to building a secure future together.
Among the key items presented was an engagement ring, symbolising their formal union.
What stood out, however, was Syed Saddiq’s decision to include financial instruments as part of the gifts, namely savings in Amanah Saham Nasional Berhad (ASNB) and Tabung Haji (TH) for Bella.
ALSO READ: ‘She said yes’: Bella Astillah gets engaged to Syed Saddiq
The thoughtful theme extended to Bella’s children, Mohamad Ayden Adrean, nine, and Ara Adreanna, six.
Both children received contributions to the National Education Savings Scheme (SSPN), underscoring the importance placed on their education.
The gesture drew praise online for its practical approach, emphasising financial security alongside tradition.
The ceremony and its distinctive concept have since sparked conversation among netizens, many of whom commended the couple for blending tradition with a modern, forward-thinking approach.
Among them is Instagram user Timtiah, who said that he was blown away by what Syed Saddiq gave to Bella as engagement gifts.
"Instead of giving designer stuff like jewellery and watches, Syed Saddiq actually gave her ASNB investment units... and even an education investment scheme for her children.
"I think that is really cool because instead of gifts that depreciate over time, you are actually giving financial security to someone for the future and isn’t that the best thing ever," he said in a video post.
Another Instagram user, arinadanca1, commented on Timtiah’s video and said that it was a smart and thoughtful move by Syed Saddiq.
"Syed Saddiq be raising the bar for Malaysian men," she said.
Another comment came from user ana_mansor_ who said that Bella was lucky to meet her jodoh (match) in the form of a smart man who thinks about the future.
"It is like the rainbow arriving after the rain," she said.
Bella and Syed Saddiq announced their engagement on Saturday (March 28).
Syed Saddiq revealed the news on Instagram, confirming that he had proposed to Bella and that she had accepted on top of Mount Kinabalu in Sabah.
