MALAYSIA: A recent Reddit post on Malaysia’s subreddit r/Bolehland has sparked a lively discussion among young professionals. In the post titled “Single, 27-year-old working in corporate. Impossible to find someone single. Am I screwed?”, a woman lays bare her struggles with modern dating.
Despite her efforts—joining running clubs, attending paid meetups like Timeleft, and relying on friends for introductions—she laments that she only encounters endless “talking stages” and repeated “situationships”. She wonders if she’s missed her chance at love during her university years.
Voices from the community
The Reddit community responded with a mix of humour, empathy, and practical advice. One user said: “Chill, you’re only 27. Jangan stress.” Other responses offered reflective perspectives: “Concentrate on your job, your finances, and loving yourself to the fullest.” Another commenter shared, “Just enjoy and work towards your goal. I’m 32 and I feel fine being single.”
One user also advised, “Focus on living an interesting life, contributing to your community, and spreading positivity. Your ideal partner will come along if that’s meant to happen.”
Others questioned whether she was rushing into a relationship, pointing out: “Why are you in a rush? FOMO? If you find someone in such a desperate condition, how do you expect it to last? Everything happens for a reason.”
Meanwhile, one user reminded her that relationships formed in university don’t always last, saying, “Many of my friends who had relationships during school did not survive after they started working. The reason is simple: As our responsibility grows in age, we inevitably change, and sometimes it’s just not compatible.”
These comments highlight a broader sentiment: the importance of focusing on personal growth and well-being, with the belief that meaningful relationships will follow in due time.
The broader context: Modern dating challenges
The post reflects a common frustration shared by many young adults. Societal expectations often suggest that significant relationships should be established during university years or in the early twenties. However, as careers become more demanding, it can be difficult to find time and energy to nurture new relationships.
For corporate professionals feeling the strain of singlehood at 27, it’s crucial to recognise that many others are in the same boat. Focusing on personal interests, expanding social circles, and maintaining an open mind can create opportunities for meaningful connections.
Letting go of timelines and understanding that meaningful relationships can develop at any stage of life may alleviate some of the pressures associated with modern dating.