No one likes getting shouted at, especially when the issue could’ve been discussed without anyone raising their voice. However, some people prefer to communicate their grievances loudly and angrily.
Former Radio DJ Phoebe Yap (菲比) shared an incident yesterday (13th January) on her Facebook. The DJ had gone out for a good time at an eatery and got verbally attacked. However, her response to the issue had many applauding her.
Phoebe visited a certain eatery in Taman Tun Dr. Ismail (TTDI) a few days ago. She brought a cup of coffee with her, mainly because she had bought it prior to visiting the shop and wasn’t able to finish it. No one said anything when she entered the eatery and ordered a bowl of fish noodles from a stall.
However, shortly after ordering, she heard someone “drinking loudly”. Startled, she looked up and saw an uncle who was running the chicken rice stall. He pointed at her and started shouting. “How are we supposed to do business (when there are) people like you who bring (outside drinks) in?” he supposedly scolded.
“Don’t you feel shameful?” Phoebe added he had said other things as well, but was too frightened to recall everything he said. Additionally, she felt mortified as everyone was staring at her. “The old lady working (at the stall beside him) also gave me a contemptuous look,” she stated. Being condemned by a stranger is terrifying. But having it done in front of others as well was humiliating.
Thankfully, Phoebe decided to handle the matter maturely. She requested to speak with the owner of the eatery and discussed the issue with him. “Because there was no sign, I really didn’t know that you can’t bring your own beverages to the (eatery),” she said and apologised. “But shouting at a customer, I really can’t (handle) it.” Additionally, Phoebe brought up her concern that she was targeted since she was a lone woman.
Thankfully, the owner understood and empathised with her feelings. He apparently told Phoebe he would talk to the chicken rice stall owner. However, Phoebe did leave after receiving her food. She added she had no issue with restaurants having regulations against outside food and drinks. “Also, life is short so I choose not to care. Not because I feel you are doing the right thing, but because I have good character,” she wrote.
Netizens agreed with how Phoebe had handled the situation, praising her for handling the situation well. Others shared situations where restaurants expect them to order a drink. A few fans jokingly offered to accompany her to the eatery next time. “I believe (if I’m there), no one will dare to bully you,” one comment read.
Although most places are against customers bringing in outside food and drinks, this can be calmly communicated. There’s no need to make a huge fuss over a small matter. Hopefully, Phoebe will be able to enjoy herself the next time she visits an eatery.
Sources: China Press, Facebook
