Cover Dr Say is a fan of Offspring’s FeatherAir diaper range

TikTok star and diaper bag pro Dr. Shazril Shaharuddin shares the parenting tips he’s learned the hard way

Dr. Shazril Shaharuddin, affectionately known as Dr. Say, is a familiar face to many, not just as a medical professional, but also as a dedicated father of three. With a candid and relatable approach, he shares insights into his life as a doctor and a dad, offering valuable advice to parents navigating the beautiful chaos of raising children.

Dr. Say’s journey into fatherhood began after five years of marriage, a period filled with anticipation and hope. The arrival of his first son in 2019 brought about a significant shift in his life. 

“When I held my son for the first time, I could feel the immense responsibility I have as a father,” Dr. Say shared. “Because raising a child is not one or two years’ work but a lifelong responsibility.”

His transition to fatherhood coincided with a career shift, moving away from the demanding schedule of government service to focus on content creation. This allowed him to be more present in his children's lives. 

“To me, a ‘super dad’ is a father that can balance it all: working to earn money, but at the same time able to be present as a father and as a husband,” says Dr. Say. He achieves this balance by setting clear boundaries between work and family. “Especially now I am more of a content creator, and I need to post at certain times—I make sure I have set everything up before my sons get back from school at 6pm. Once they’re home, it’s phone-free time for me, so that I can focus on the boys.”

Tatler Asia
Above Dr Say: “I always look for products that are clinically approved by dermatologists or paediatricians. Hypoallergenic products are essential for my sons’ sensitive skin, and I also look for products that are free from chlorine and harmful chemicals.”
Tatler Asia
Above Offspring’s FeatherAir diaper range is formulated to be lightweight and gentle on the skin

Dr Say’s diaper bag essentials

As a seasoned dad, Dr. Say has mastered the art of packing the perfect diaper bag. “I’m not the type to bring the whole house! I like my diaper bag to be light yet have all the necessities.”

Diapers: “If you forget other things, you can still make do but if you don’t have diapers—it’s game over for me!” he says, speaking from experience—having once forgotten to bring diapers, it’s not a mistake he’ll make again. Dr. Say’s tip: bring at least two diapers per child, and go for Offspring’s FeatherAir range. The FeatherAir diapers are chemical-free, just like Offspring’s other lines, and infused with soothing Shea butter to eliminate bacteria and nourish the skin. The diapers are lightweight and comfortable to wear at just 1.5mm—but reinforced with advanced absorbency, air circulation and leak protection technology. 

Baby wipes
An essential for cleaning up on-the-go, from diaper changes to spills.

Muslin cloths
“My second son loves muslin cloths, he treats them like a pacifier. I’ve found they’re also great as a burping cloth or even a light blanket if my kids are asleep in the stroller. 

Spare clothes
“I always pack a set of clothes for each of my boys.”

All the bottles
“A drinking bottle each for my five-year-old and three-year-old, plus a milk bottle and milk powder for my one-year-old.”

Always have a back-up
“Keep extras in the car, like a small stash of diapers, wipes, and spare clothes.”

A doctor’s perspective on parenting and product choices

As a doctor, Dr. Say approaches product selection for his boys with a critical eye, especially considering all three of his children have sensitive skin. 

“I always look for products that are clinically approved by dermatologists or paediatricians. Hypoallergenic products are essential for my sons’ sensitive skin, and I also look for products that are free from chlorine and harmful chemicals.”

When it comes to diapers, apart from accounting for skin sensitivities, they also need to be absorbent and lightweight. “I need something that can absorb as much as possible, and can ensure that there won’t be any leakage. Plus, the thinner the diapers the easier they are to fit into a diaper bag—I love being a minimalist,” he laughs.

Dr. Say’s advice for new dads

What would be his advice for dads embarking on their parenting journey for the first time?

“Stay flexible!” he says. “Prepare for changes in plans or unexpected situations. Babies can be unpredictable, so maintaining a flexible attitude will help you handle any challenges that arise during outings. And remember—whenever we go out with our kids, it should be for them, not for us,” he laughs. “There’ll be time for ‘us time’ later.”

Dr. Say’s journey as a father and doctor is an inspiration to many. His dedication to his family, combined with his professional insights, offers valuable guidance for parents navigating the joys and challenges of raising children.Just remember his advice: stay flexible, and always have a back-up supply of diapers.