A Malaysian man objects to being called ‘adik’ by strangers, sparking debate online. Netizens defend the term as polite, respectful, and culturally ingrained.
FOR many Malaysians, using certain terms to address one another has long been part of daily life, primarily as a sign of respect and acknowledgement, and in turn, fostering a sense of community.
However, one Malaysian man recently disagreed with this practice, expressing his frustration at being referred to as “adik,” a term traditionally used for younger individuals but increasingly applied to others regardless of age.
“Why do you feel the need to call strangers ‘dik’? I understand you’re probably older, but I’m an adult, and we’re not close enough to be using ‘dik’ or ‘akak’ with each other. Please address me respectfully, and I will do the same for you,” the man wrote in a Threads post.
Netizens, however, disagreed with his sentiment, insisting that the term “adik” is a respectful way to address someone, even if they are an adult.
“Bro, honestly, after living in another country where people call lecturers by their first name, being called kakak, dik, sis, bro, bang is such a blessing. It feels gentle, respectful, and very polite. Why? Because we treat strangers like family. And that’s what sets Malaysians apart from others,” one user commented.
“I do it because I also like being called ‘dik.’ It feels very heartwarming. This is Malaysia, right? Isn’t it common to address people as ‘kak,’ ‘dik,’ ‘bang,’ uncle, aunty? It’s already ingrained in our culture,” added another.
