I am going to give birth abroad, far from my mother and family. How do I get through the confinement (pantang) period without them?

You do not need to copy hometown confinement practices fully; what matters is rest, nutritious food and enough help. Allah says: “Allah does not burden a soul beyond what it can bear” (Surah al-Baqarah 2:286). Plan now with your husband: who will cook, who will look after the other children, and when your husband will take leave. If possible, invite your mother or a relative to come for the first few weeks. Get to know the local Muslim community or other Malaysian families; many are happy to send food. Follow the advice of the doctors and nurses there on postnatal care, and talk to your mother by video call for emotional support. If the sadness is prolonged or you find it hard to sleep and eat, tell your doctor immediately. See mental health.