Could a Free Second Honeymoon Prevent Divorce?

A Malaysian state is hoping to cut its divorce rate by offering free second honeymoons to couples on the brink of a split.

The government will pick up the tab for warring couples to spend three days and two nights on one of the tropical islands off Terengganu state.

"Newly-wed couples are facing numerous problems. Among them are financial issues and problems related to their in-laws," Ashaari Idris, the state's welfare, community development and women affairs committee chairman, told AFP news service. Terengganu is a Muslim-majority state in Malaysia’s northeast. Under Islam, divorce is allowed, but frowned upon.

"I want to strengthen family ties. If a marriage breaks down, it will hurt the children and it will have serious implications on society," Ashaari added.

Couples will have to speak to each other long enough to apply and then sit through interview for the 1,500 ringgit ($440) package. The deal is intended especially for those who have been married for at least 20 years, Ashaari told the Malaysia Star newspaper. ““We can understand newlyweds having problems understanding one another where a slight skirmish could lead to a separation but it is unacceptable for those married for more than two decades to file for divorce.”

The offer comes after a successful pilot project involving some 25 couples on the verge of meltdown.

Apparently a dip in the postcard-perfect sea cooled them off!

Photo courtesy neeZhom via Flickr.