Saturday, October 25, 2025

Of Love, Loss, and a Cat Named Oyen

After losing so much, I found companionship in the gentlest soul — and he never once left my side.

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 26, 2025: I’ve never really considered myself an active TikToker — I don’t go on Live, and I’m not chasing trends or fame. But I do enjoy creating little videos of my everyday life — my makan-makan outings with friends and family, and the beautiful places I’ve travelled to. My favourite clips are always about food — those irresistible dishes that make each trip memorable.

Recently, I reached the 1K follower mark since my first post in September 2024. I’m not sure if that’s something to be proud of, as it’s been a slow, steady climb — perhaps because I post for joy, not for numbers. For me, TikTok feels more like a personal diary — a space to capture memories that matter.

Among my videos are photos of my late siblings — all of whom have passed on. I was the third in a family of five, and now I’m the only one left. Maybe that’s why companionship feels even more precious these days.

And that brings me to Oyen.

It’s been almost three years since Oyen came into my life. He was only four months old when my former part-time maid brought him over, knowing how much I missed my previous cat, Putih — a beautiful
white Persian who passed away at the age of ten due to health complications.

From the moment Oyen arrived, he brought warmth and laughter back into my home. With his thick golden-brown fur, hazel eyes, short chubby legs, and long tail, Oyen is truly one of a kind. He’s friendly with my guests, playful when in the mood, and adorably grumpy during his nap times.

Earlier this year, one of my TikTok videos of Oyen unexpectedly went viral — over 14.1K views! It was a lovely surprise and a reminder of how many cat lovers out there share the same affection and joy these furry friends bring.

Oyen is an indoor cat and was neutered shortly after I adopted him. Besides caring for him, I also feed stray and neighbourhood cats twice a day — and lately, two little kittens that have found shelter behind my house. I sometimes feel sorry that Oyen can’t join them outdoors, but for health reasons — and on my vet’s advice — he must stay inside, as he’s prone to flea allergies.

Still, Oyen never lets me feel alone. Every evening, he waits by the door when I return home — his eyes lighting up as if to say, “Welcome back.” In his quiet way, he fills my days with warmth and companionship.

Oyen isn’t just my pet — he’s family, my loyal companion, and truly, my best friend.

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