Grandma at 34, Singaporean influencer sparks debate

Now 35, Ling, who has been married three times, welcomed her first son at 17. She has since had another son and three daughters, totaling five children. Her eldest son is currently 18, with the other children aged 17, 13, 10, and 8, according to the South China Morning Post.

Last year, when her eldest son’s girlfriend became pregnant, Ling responded calmly, quipping that her son had taken inspiration from her to become a parent at 17.

"What’s done is done," Ling remarked, emphasizing her preference for offering advice and support rather than scolding her son.

Upon learning about the pregnancy, Ling allowed her son to make his own decisions and take responsibility for his actions, underscoring the importance of being there for her children and guiding them when needed.

While Ling acknowledged the challenges of early parenthood, she stated that her focus is on teaching her son to take responsibility.

She made it clear that she does not endorse early family planning but remains committed to supporting her son and ensuring the well-being of the child.

One online observer accused Ling of being a failed mother for condoning early parenthood.

However, others praised her for guiding her child to responsibility, with Ling herself stating, "We cannot choose good or naughty children to have. But we can guide our children to be better each and every day," reported Yahoo! News Singapore.

Ling, who owns a chicken hotpot restaurant in Singapore, gained prominence for her appearance in the Singaporean military comedy film "Ah Girls Go Army" in 2022.