Everyone knows the iconic Spider-Man quote: “With great power comes great responsibility“. Well, when you are an influencer, it’s probably wise to remember that there are plenty of people watching and listening to you. After all, you never know what will stick and what won’t.
Local YouTuber Cody Hong (方志勇) got a firm reminder of this recently. Last week, Cody took to his socials to rant about a certain restaurant in Petaling Jaya. Apparently, he had a spat with the owner as he wasn’t allowed to pay via cashless means. Yesterday (8th June), Cody took to his socials to apologise for his tirade.
The 27-year-old had initially washed his hands of the issue. However, after hearing that his rant had gone viral, Cody decided to speak up and clarify his side of things. “I rarely log into Facebook anymore, but my friends (told) me I was in the news again,” he said. “First of all, I’m sorry. I’m sorry for the meaningless news occupying everyone’s feed.”
Cody explained he had taken a break from social media for a year, knowing its effects. “I know that my public complaints on my social media may affect the business of the store, and I should not post such complaints on my own influential social media,” he said. However, he maintained that he had his reasons for reacting as such.
He stated that there had been a sign on the door saying the store accepted credit cards and E-Wallet payments. “I went in knowing I didn’t have enough cash,” Cody said. “But later, I learned that (it wasn’t available) during the closing period. So, I was very (embarrassed).” But, he actively cooperated and tried to find other ways to pay for his food.
The store did eventually let him pay with an alternate method, although he understood it was troublesome. For that, he apologised and thanked them. Yet, Cody wasn’t happy with the way the shopkeeper had spoken to him. “As a customer, it’s inevitable that I will feel emotional. I also understand that the store owner has feelings (too) when they are off work,” he said.
However, Cody claimed he had simply been sharing his thoughts as a consumer. “Because as a consumer and user, I do think that the popularity of fintech (financial technology) in Malaysia can make life more convenient,” he said. “My follow-up discussion is just that.” Nevertheless, he understood that he shouldn’t complain publicly on his social media. “I got emotionally overwhelmed,” Cody admitted. “(I) will pay attention to what I put out next time.”
His apology was well received by netizens with many claiming they too did not carry cash outside anymore. Others cheered him on, saying that they would still support him regardless. As one comment pointed out, “(Internet celebrities) are also people. People cannot escape wrongdoings!”
Well, kudos to Cody for taking responsibility for his actions. Admitting you were in the wrong is never easy. Hopefully, we all learn to think before we post!
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