A man’s Threads post against lingering diners at Malaysian weddings sparks debate on common courtesy and social norms.
A Threads post has gone viral after a man vented his frustration over what he described as poor etiquette at Malaysian weddings, particularly guests who refuse to give up their seats after finishing their meals.
In the post, user @qoiikib questioned the “common sense” of attendees who linger at dining tables while other guests struggle to find a place to sit and eat.
“Can Malaysians, when attending weddings or any function, please normalise getting up from your chair once you’ve finished eating? Don’t be so selfish,” he wrote.
He also criticised the misuse of chairs, saying some guests used them to place bags instead of allowing others to sit.
“It truly hurts my heart when someone sees a person carrying a baby but pretends not to notice while playing on their phone instead of offering a seat,” he added.
The post quickly gained traction online, amassing more than 8,300 likes and 1,000 comments, with many users debating the unwritten rules of wedding etiquette.
Many commenters criticised the behaviour, describing it as a lack of basic manners and consideration in public spaces.
User nurizzatibtazman agreed, writing: “Exactly. They chat as though they’re hanging out at a coffee shop, especially at weddings held in small halls.”
“I absolutely cannot stand people who lack this kind of common sense. Even if you are a close relative, that is not an excuse to act indifferent while other guests are left standing with plates in their hands,” ismahismail commented.
“A wedding reception is not a reunion or a place for ‘healing’. Once you’ve finished eating and drinking, just head home,” idahidayahrasid added.
“If you want to spend time catching up with the bride and groom, set a time to come back later. Once you’ve eaten, just leave,” tanyalakikau suggested.
Others, however, argued that guests waiting for seats should also be more proactive and vocal.
User mohd.hafizi.hashim wrote: “This is the behaviour of guests who are blind to manners. However, we also need to speak up and ask for seats. The emcee also has a role in inviting guests to sit and asking those who have finished eating to make space.”
“I’ve normalised asking, ‘Is anyone sitting here? I want to eat.’ Why be shy? We can’t control other people, but we can control ourselves and start the change,” asyikinahmad shared.
Meanwhile, user qistinaarr took a different view, questioning the author’s attitude and defending guests’ right to socialise.
“This is so toxic. We can’t control people. Recording invited guests is rude. If they don’t notice, just ask. Save your energy and adapt,” the user commented.
“Go earlier next time. Sometimes aunties have not seen each other in a long time and want to catch up. The host should provide extra chairs for lounging,” nor_shafiqah added.
User bavannnn_raj also pointed out how wedding customs differ across communities.
“In Indian weddings, it is considered rude to leave immediately after eating. People usually stay for two to three hours to catch up. I’m not sure about you guys,” he said.
