Baey Yam Keng's tips for a loving relationship

When we met Baey Yam Keng and Lim Hai Yen, both 44, it was clear that theirs was a love story of how opposites are drawn to each other. He is the attentive, loving husband, and, in his own words, the kan chiong one. She likes to do things a little differently. For example, before they actually tied the knot, Hai Yen made sure they were both ready. She says, "I bought a book on marriage for us to work through together. Communication is important in every relationship, and I felt we needed to start as early as possible."

They met as members of Hwa Chong Junior College's Chinese Society at age 17, and were good friends for about seven years before taking their relationship to the next level in 1994.

Yam Keng and Hai Yen were married three years later in 1997, and are now proud parents of three beautiful children aged 10 to 14. Here are their tips for a lasting relationship:

Her World Brides: With your different careers and schedules, how have you managed to stay close?

Yam Keng: I tend to be the more practical and rational one, but we've never had any trouble getting along. The biggest milestone was when I went into politics. Before that, Hai Yen actually had a higher profile as artistic director for theatre productions. She was the one being interviewed for her plays and awards, while I was the supporting half. I truly appreciate my wife adjusting to this new dynamic. Now that I have much less time for the family, she's the one backing me.

Hai Yen: It took some time to cope with the change, but we are perfect for each other. Communication is key. Despite Yam Keng's busy schedule, we keep one day a week for ourselves, and set aside 15 to 20 minutes to talk every day. It has helped us to be more open and honest about personal as well as family issues, and how to cope with them.

What are the perks of married life?

Yam Keng: She comes home with me after a date instead of my having to send her home!

Hai Yen: I have actually become more impressed with him after marriage. Can you believe it? Despite being busy with work, he still handles most of the chores! He is such a responsible husband and a good father.

What's the most romantic thing you've ever done for one another?

Hai Yen: On our honeymoon, I pointed out a beautiful bangle that had caught my eye, but we had no time to stop and look at it. Without a word to me, Yam Keng went back to get it. Romantic things we still do are writing cards or little notes to each other. Also, he tries to keep his Fridays free for us. Time is the best present ever - and one that money can't buy.

Yam Keng: She's made several photo books, which chart our relationship milestones and document our lives together. I'm very grateful for them.

What are your hopes for the future?

Hai Yen: I take things one day at a time, so I'll see how it goes.

Yam Keng: I hope we continue to influence each other in a positive way, and mature as individuals. As long as we have each other's back, we can make it.

Any advice for couples about to tie the knot?

Hai Yen: The fun doesn't stop once you're married, or when you have kids. You have to keep on playing and experimenting.

Yam Keng: Never give up. Have faith that things will work out. And don't expect your relationship to be perfect. You have to work hard at it.

Look out for the full interview in Her World Brides Dec 2014 - Feb 2015. An extended version is available in this month's digital issue, which you can find on the Her World Brides app on iTunes and Google Play stores.