Singaporean influencer becomes grandmother at 34, sparks parenthood debate

Shirli Ling, a well-known influencer from Singapore, has stirred up a discussion after becoming a grandmother at the age of 34.

Last year, her 17-year-old son welcomed his first child, making Ling a grandmother at a relatively young age.

Notably, Ling, who manages a chicken hotpot restaurant, has been married three times and has a total of five children. She gave birth to her first son at 17, followed by another son and three daughters.

In an Instagram video shared in March, Ling shared her thoughts on her experience of becoming a grandmother at such a youthful age, describing it as both "good and bad." Reflecting on her son's pregnancy, she humorously remarked that he seemed to have taken inspiration from her to become a parent at 17. She emphasized the importance of allowing her son to take responsibility for his actions and make his own decisions.

Ling expressed her nuanced perspective on the situation, stating, "Depends on how you look at it and how you manage it."

She also addressed the challenges of being a young mother herself, acknowledging that she would never actively encourage her children to start families at a young age. However, she emphasized the importance of offering support and guidance rather than criticism.

Acknowledging the reality of the situation, Ling emphasized the role of parents in educating and supporting their children, especially in difficult times. She highlighted the importance of being there for her children and guiding them through their challenges.

Ling's posts on social media sparked a debate among netizens, with some criticizing her parenting choices while others commended her for her openness and supportiveness. Some users jokingly speculated about her potential future as a great-grandmother and beyond.

Despite the mixed reactions, Ling's candidness and willingness to share her experiences have garnered attention and sparked conversations about parenthood and family dynamics. With a significant following on Instagram, Ling's influence extends beyond her personal life, shaping discussions about societal norms and values.

Ling gained prominence after her appearance in the Singaporean military comedy film Ah Girls Go Army in 2022.