Social Graces is a column written by girl about town Grace Kwan on the *most* pressing topics discussed among the smart set. But don’t take what she says too seriously—after all, she is just a society girl.

Dear readers, I’m not one to be easily shocked—I would like to think I’ve seen my fair share of the world at 25—but this fairly recent news piece from our neighbour up north absolutely floored me. The news report blared (rather luridly, I might add), “Malaysian woman buys Lambo for husband as his life will be 'confined' after she gives birth”. Huh.

This act of marital devotion, which has sparked off a wave of headlines in Singapore as well, centres on the peculiar decision of one Ms Anes Ayuni Osman, 19, who is described as a “successful cosmetics entrepreneur from Kelantan”. Apparently, she purchased a hulking, turquoise beast (some would call it a Lamborghini Huracan Evo—I would just call it a flashy piece of metal) to soothe his nerves over her 100-day confinement period after giving birth.

Now, I’m all for gender equality, but I would think that if one’s wife has the tenacity to carry one’s child to term (at an average of 40 weeks), one would be able to deal with a measly three months, but I guess I’m just old fashioned that way. This brings me to my main point: why is the husband getting a push present? What is our dear Ms Anes getting out of it besides a healthy, squalling baby?

To the uninitiated, it is rather common (among the society set, at least) to present one’s wife with a present of sorts for pushing out the propagator of your genetic line. I have known some of my older (emphasis mine) friends who have received matching diamond jewellery sets, Birkins, a fancy watch, etc. Some sentimental blokes might even sign off on a new property purchased specifically for such a joyous occasion.

But, I guess the world turns, and now it is the chaps who need to be rewarded for their contribution to a pregnancy (which, let’s face it, is not going to be much more than the wife’s, but who’s counting?). As Ms Anes told another local Malaysian newspaper: “Apart from being thankful for his sacrifice, I’m gifting him this Lamborghini because I want him by my side throughout my confinement.” 

She added: “I’m expecting my husband to not only be with me all the time but he has to care for the baby day and night because there’s a huge possibility I will be having a Caesarean birth... so I want more attention from my husband.” 

Well, you do you, girl, but I do hope that he’s waiting on you hand and foot for the next few months.