In Malaysia toilets sans bidets are often turned into a convenient excuse to bash Type C
why are Malaysia going backwards with no bidet toilets. I thought we are better than this?
— Belle 🍉 (@hanabelIe) August 6, 2025
Grumbling on X, Belle (@hanabelle) argued the country was going backwards with the unavailability of bidets in toilets at retail complexes which she went on to label washrooms with such facility as 'disgusting'.
Somehow the discussion was turned into a heated debate on race with the hygiene habits of the Chinese who are associated with high preference for toilet rolls over water being put under scrutiny.
One commenter argued that since the Chinese business community controlled these shopping malls, everyone else had to follow their filthy habits.
To further illustrate the point that the Chinese entrepreneurs were calling the shots at shopping outlets, it was pointed out that many malls observed the practice of avoiding the digit '4' in numbering its floors.
The commenter claimed that this practice of naming levels '3A, 13A and 3A3A' would inevitably be followed by these new-styled bidet-free toilets. He also laughed off suggestions to install Nippon-style high-tech toilets, arguing that citizens here simply lacked the discipline.
One commenter blamed the mall managements for forcing these unhygienic practices on Muslim customers.
Some commenters sought to deflect the blame towards mainland Chinese, claiming that local Chinese are of the bidet-loving variety.
It's the Mat Salleh's fault and their colonialist mentality, cried a few commenters! The bidet-free facilities were the result of foreign direct investment (FDI), argued one commenter.
The actual reason is probably even more embarrassing. Malaysians, regardless age, gender or race, still lack the required toilet etiquette.
Splashing indiscriminately making the toilet a wet mess is probably why so many malls do not install bidets.
Only in Malaysia can toilet-habits be turned into a racial issue. Actual truth of the matter is that its citizens just lack the etiquette to know how to properly use a public toilet.
And that's just the sh**ty truth. – Aug 11, 2025
Main image credit: Cleveland Clinic
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Barnama
2 days ago
- Barnama
Cultivate Pride In The Jalur Gemilang To Prevent Improper Displays
C ome National Month, a festive spirit fills the air as rows of Jalur Gemilang flutter gracefully in the wind, adorning bridges, pedestrian crossings, business premises and homes. With the theme 'Malaysia MADANI: Rakyat Disantuni', the country will celebrate National Day on Aug 31 and Malaysia Day on Sept 16. In their eagerness to express their patriotic spirit, many people display the Jalur Gemilang, sometimes in their own creative ways. However, amid the excitement, some remain unaware of the proper way to display the flag, giving rise to a recurring controversy. While it does not necessarily mean they lack patriotism, incidents such as the Jalur Gemilang being flown upside down highlight the need for all Malaysians to understand the meaning of the flag and master the correct way to display it. FLAG SYMBOL OF NATIONAL PRIDE Commenting on this issue, historian Associate Prof Dr Abu Hanifah Haris said Malaysians should first cultivate a sense of love for the Jalur Gemilang. 'The flag represents the sovereignty and dignity of a nation. In the context of Malaysia, the Jalur Gemilang embodies the pride and identity of all Malaysians across ethnicities and religions, and therefore must be cherished by all citizens who love their country. 'The Jalur Gemilang should not only be honoured but must also be picked up and placed in an appropriate place if it falls to the ground,' stressed the head of the Department of History, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Universiti Malaya. He told Bernama that flying the Jalur Gemilang during the National Month is a way for the people to express appreciation to those who fought for the country's independence. The gesture also serves as a manifestation of the people's love for the nation. 'Therefore, incidents of flying the flag upside down are highly sensitive and should never happen again,' he said, adding that society should learn from similar incidents that occurred in the past. (In terms of global flag-raising protocol, flying a flag upside down conveys a message of distress, danger or protest.) HISTORY OF THE JALUR GEMILANG Originally named Flag of the Federation of Malaya and officially hoisted on Aug 31, 1957, it was later known as the Malaysian flag before being officially declared the Jalur Gemilang on the eve of Aug 31, 1997, in conjunction with the nation's 40th Independence Day celebration, by then Prime Minister Datuk Seri (Tun) Dr Mahathir Mohamad. According to online sources, the name was chosen by the Cabinet from three shortlisted entries, the other two being Jalur Nusa Gemilang and Jalur Sinar Gemilang. Abu Hanifah explained that the word 'Jalur' refers to the straight stripes on the flag, symbolising the straight path and direction followed by all citizens, while 'Gemilang' signifies the nation's excellence and the unity of the people in safeguarding and elevating Malaysia's image. He said Jalur Gemilang is more than just the name of the flag – it is a symbol that identifies Malaysia on the world stage, embodying the nation's image, identity and sovereignty. Tracing its history, he said, 'Our flag's origin dates back to 1947. It was designed by Mohamed Hamzah, an architect with the Johor Public Works Department, who took part in a flag design competition for the soon-to-be-formed government. Out of 373 submissions, three designs were shortlisted and his design was chosen as the winner.' However, the original design – 11 blue-and-white stripes with a white crescent and star in a red canton – underwent modifications before being adopted as the flag of the Federation of Malaya. Today, the Jalur Gemilang features 14 red and white stripes, with a yellow crescent and 14-point star set against a blue canton. He said the 14 stripes and the 14-point star represent the members of the Malaysian federation, namely 13 state governments and a federal government (which now covers three federal territories: Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Labuan). The four colours of the Jalur Gemilang carry their own meanings: blue represents the unity of the people; red signifies courage and readiness to face any challenge for the nation; white symbolises purity; and yellow, the royal colour, represents the sovereignty of the Malay Rulers and upholding the principles of the Constitution and the Rukun Negara. '… the yellow on the crescent and star represents the royal colour, signifying the sovereignty of the Sultans of the Malay States. 'This colour also refers to Malaysia's constitutional monarchy system. Therefore, respect for the yellow emblem on the Jalur Gemilang is equal to respect for the institution of the Malay Rulers and the nation's sovereignty, which is why we must honour our national flag,' he explained. FLY THE FLAG CORRECTLY Pointing to the recent incident where the Malaysian flag was displayed upside down, Abu Hanifah attributed such occurrences to the indifference of some citizens who take flag-raising etiquette lightly. Their failure to learn from past incidents, including those that occurred during last year's National Month celebrations, reflects a lack of effort to improve their knowledge of the nation. 'In fact, there are many platforms that provide information on the correct way to raise the flag. All the information is at your fingertips – just 'Google' it. '…in addition, government agencies such as the Information Department of Malaysia (JaPen) also demonstrate the proper way to display the flag during its (National Day) campaign, and this information is available on the agency's portal,' he said. Following last year's upside-down flag incident, JaPen recommended that Malaysians refer to its guidebook on the correct method of displaying the Jalur Gemilang to avoid repeating mistakes. The guidebook, titled 'Bendera Kita Jalur Gemilang', also explains important aspects of caring for the national flag. The state-level JaPen have also shared proper flag installation methods on all their social media platforms. Abu Hanifah also did not rule out the possibility that the practice of flying the flag only once a year, during the National Month, may be the reason for the occurrence of upside-down flag incidents. He, therefore, feels the Jalur Gemilang should be displayed throughout the year, not just during the National Month. 'Even now, flags that are flown all year round are mostly seen at government complexes or buildings. In my view, flag displays should be extended to public spaces, especially shopping complexes and tourist spots… so every time people see the Jalur Gemilang flying in public, the image will remain in their minds. 'This, indirectly, can help prevent mistakes in how we raise or display the flag,' he added. He also viewed the initiative of having students at schools and educational institutions wear Jalur Gemilang badges as one of the best ways to 'bring the younger generation closer' to the flag. He said early exposure to the national flag not only helps children understand its function but also instills love and patriotism in their hearts. '…when all efforts have been made by various parties, including the government, to connect the people with the Jalur Gemilang, yet some still commit the same mistake (flying the flag upside down), I believe it is not because they don't know but (it is) because they don't care, and the authorities should take action,' he added. The Jalur Gemilang is subject to the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act 1963, which, among other things, states that acts such as flying the flag upside down constitute an insult to the flag, and perpetrators can be punished with a fine of up to RM20,000 or imprisonment for up to three years, or both. HOLISTIC APPROACH Meanwhile, Penang Malay History and Civilisation Association president Datuk Abdul Kader Md Ali said all agencies, including non-governmental organisations (NGOs) related to history in Malaysia, should provide awareness and information about the Jalur Gemilang to all levels of society. He said this proactive approach is needed to ensure there are no more mistakes in displaying or raising the Jalur Gemilang in the future. 'All parties must play their role, whether government agencies or NGOs… all must go to the ground to meet the people and teach them how to respect the flag and use it correctly, including not flying it upside down and not using flags that are damaged or have incorrect emblems. 'I also believe that the practice of distributing free flags to the public, such as at toll plazas, as was done extensively in previous years, should continue. This not only enhances the festive atmosphere of National Day itself but also ensures people recognise and remember their own national flag,' he said. He added that parents also share the responsibility of educating their children about the nation's history, not only regarding the Jalur Gemilang but also the Rukun Negara. He stressed that these elements are the 'key' to fostering togetherness and creating unity among Malaysia's diverse communities. 'Anything related to the nation, including the flag and the principles of the Rukun Negara, should be safeguarded by all Malaysians regardless of race or religion,' he said, urging the government to be firmer in addressing improper flag displays. 'The flag is a symbol of the nation's honour and must be protected to preserve the dignity of the nation.' HOW TO DISPLAY THE JALUR GEMILANG PROPERLY According to JaPen's guidebook, the Jalur Gemilang should only be displayed horizontally, even when in the form of a 'flag line', and must never be displayed vertically. For the 'Malaysia Banner' (a vertically elongated Jalur Gemilang), when viewed from the front, the left side of the banner must begin with a red stripe and end with a white stripe. The banner must also have a tail measuring one-eighth of its total length and must never be displayed horizontally. In terms of usage etiquette, the flag must never be used as a tablecloth, cushion cover, curtain, umbrella, bath towel, face mask, headscarf, cap, songkok, headwear, samping, clothing or other items. The flag must also not be used as a wrapping for bottles, vases, poles, cans, food covers, and other objects, nor should the flag be painted onto such items. Using the flag in various styles, images or forms that alter the physical appearance of the Jalur Gemilang for advertising purposes, including promoting National Month celebrations, is also prohibited. Under the Prime Minister's Department's General Circular No. 3 of 1994, it is mandatory to fly the Jalur Gemilang at federal buildings nationwide, federal government offices, federal statutory bodies and local authorities of the federal government. The public is also encouraged to fly the Jalur Gemilang at their homes, business premises, shops and stalls. However, the Jalur Gemilang may be flown at any time and in any location, as long as it is done appropriately and with respect for the flag. For the correct procedures on displaying and using the Jalur Gemilang, the public can refer to: -- BERNAMA
The Sun
2 days ago
- The Sun
China UnionPay's Poetry POS Machine Campaign Starts Global Heart-Warming Journey in Thailand
BANGKOK, THAILAND - Media OutReach Newswire - 15 August 2025 - Recently, alongside a Chinese lantern festival held in Thailand, UnionPay's Poetry POS Machine public welfare initiative brought the poems of Chinese children in mountainous areas overseas for the very first time. During the event, the 'Poetry Lights the Heart's Lantern' Bangkok lantern and poem festival was also staged. On-site, the overseas charity booth of UnionPay's Poetry POS Machine, nestled beneath the China-Thailand friendship lantern display, stood out prominently. The large central lantern at the booth was breathtakingly beautiful, while the surrounding lanterns were adorned with children's poems in both Chinese and Thai. Thai children recited verses by their Chinese peers, savoring the childlike wonder and joy from China. Visitors to the booth could either make donations by swiping their UnionPay cards on the POS machine to receive a bilingual Chinese-Thai poetry receipt, or record a poetry-reading audio for free and get a postcard with an audio QR code – a unique memento to call their own. Notably, all donations from the event will be channeled through a local Thai charity foundation to improve the lives and education of local children. As a leading international card network, UnionPay is widely accepted in Thailand, with its global acceptance network spanning 183 countries and regions. 'We believe that despite the distance between China and Thailand, the sincerity and warmth in these poems are shared by all. For poetry is a universal language of humanity, a home where all souls can find solace; just as lanterns, no matter where they glow, embody our shared longing for light and warmth,' a China UnionPay spokesperson. To shine a light on the talents of children in mountainous regions, China UnionPay took their poems beyond the mountains and launched the Poetry POS Machine initiative in 2019. To date, the initiative has reached over 400 schools in mountainous areas in Anhui, Henan, Sichuan, Guizhou, Yunnan, Xinjiang, and other regions, benefiting more than 7,000 local children with art education programs. So far, the campaign has collected over 6,000 poems and published an anthology. Additionally, the first UnionPay public welfare library and 114 public welfare book corners have been put into use in Jinzhai County, central China's Anhui Province.
Herald Malaysia
2 days ago
- Herald Malaysia
Kuwait: Our Lady of Arabia elevated to minor basilica
The Church of Our Lady of Arabia in Kuwait has been elevated to the status of a Minor Basilica, with Bishop Aldo Berardi calling it 'the first of its kind on the Arabian Peninsula." Aug 16, 2025 Our Lady of Arabia in Kuwait By Roberto PaglialongaSpeaking by phone with Vatican News, Bishop Aldo Berardi, Apostolic Vicar of Northern Arabia, shares his joy over the elevation of the Church of Our Lady of Arabia, located in Ahmadi, Kuwait, to the rank of Minor Basilica by a decree promulgated on June 28 by the Dicastery for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments. The honour recognizes the historical, religious, and pastoral importance that is now officially acknowledged for the first church in the country situated on the shores of the Gulf. 'It is an old parish, now under the jurisdiction of the Apostolic Vicariate,' said Bishop Berardi, 'but it arose through the initiative of the Carmelites in 1948 and was then built (by the Kuwait Oil Company) for those who came to work in the oil industry: two years ago we celebrated its 75th anniversary.' Church of great spiritual and pastoral significance He called it a church of great spiritual meaning, because 'here all migrants and those who have come to live and work in the country have been able, and can still, practice their faith under the protection of Our Lady.' The church, moreover, houses the statue of Our Lady of Arabia—originally dedicated to Our Lady of Mount Carmel—which in 1949 received the blessing of Pope Pius XII in Rome and was crowned in 2011 by Cardinal Antonio Cañizares Llovera on behalf of Pope Benedict XVI. 'It is therefore a shrine of great devotion,' he said, highlighting its deep historical roots. 'The acceptance that here, in a predominantly Muslim region where such representations are forbidden, there is the presence of a Marian statue. I find this profoundly meaningful.' The first 'minor basilica' of the Gulf Our Lady of Arabia is thus the first Minor Basilica in the Gulf region. 'We thank all those who contributed to obtaining this recognition—from the local authorities to those who were involved in the construction of the building and the community many years ago, to the religious orders that have long been active here, keeping this devotion alive, to the apostolic vicars of Kuwait and Northern Arabia, and of course to the Holy See,' said Bishop Berardi. 'This church is a 'flower' in the area: even during the war between Iraq and Kuwait, the statue of Our Lady remained as guardian of that small church and protector for all those who could not flee at that time.' Today she is the patroness of the Gulf, that is, of both the northern and southern vicariates; her solemnity falls on the Second Sunday in Ordinary Time. A 'young and living' faith of two million Catholics The Northern Vicariate, whose jurisdiction extends to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, and Kuwait, includes a community of people from all over the world, especially the Philippines and India, but also from many countries in Africa and Europe—migrants who, for the most part, come for work. 'There are Christians of every rite; we can truly say we are an expression of the universal Church. All the communities are deeply attached to their language—in which they celebrate—and to their rites,' Bishop Berardi continued. 'We are a good number for the region: two million Catholics throughout the Northern Vicariate (plus another million in the Southern Vicariate). Almost all are foreigners, but there are also several locals; there are even some Kuwaitis by origin who have obtained citizenship. In short, ours is a living, young, devout community.' Celebrations of the Jubilee of young people Many young people come from the Gulf region to celebrate the Jubilee of Youth at the end of July and beginning of August. 'For them it was a chance to experience firsthand the devotion of the whole Church gathered together,' said the Bishop. 'A moment of grace and sharing to which they may not always be accustomed, because—even though we have freedom of worship in our churches—here we must respect certain limits on the public expression of faith.' For this reason, he said, 'being and walking together with young people from all over the world was very important for them. They were able to be strengthened in faith, pause in prayer at the places of the martyrs, take part in the Eucharistic celebration in the historic Basilica of San Crisogono, and on the esplanade of Tor Vergata experience the vigil and Mass with the Pope.' The young people then returned home and are already at work preparing for the next World Youth Day in South Korea in 2027. Marian devotion and catechism for children 'Within—and with the utmost respect for—the boundaries permitted to us, we also manage to organize small activities of assistance and support, especially for workers who encounter difficulties,' he said. 'Then there are the movement groups, such as the Charismatics, who have a very strong presence; Marian communities; and members of religious orders. Everything revolves around three pillars: Mass, Eucharistic adoration, and devotion to Mary, which accompany the times dedicated to children's catechism and the formation of lay ministers.' Decree conferring the title The decree of elevation (No. 18/25), explained a note from the Apostolic Vicariate, follows a formal request submitted by Bishop Berardi, who from the outset recognized the unique, leading role of the church in the spiritual life of Catholic faithful in Kuwait and throughout the Arabian Peninsula. It is also the fruit of the pastoral work of the clergy and the parish council of Our Lady of Arabia in Ahmadi. Capuchin Father Roswin Redento Agnelo Pires and his team helped prepare the necessary documentation, which was crucial to the outcome. The title of minor basilica, the statement added, is conferred by the Holy Father on churches of special importance in liturgical and pastoral life that stand out for their historical, spiritual, and architectural value. Minor basilica's enjoy a special bond with the See of Rome and the Pope. Among its privileges are the right to display the papal emblem of the crossed keys on its furnishings and banners, and to carry the ombrellino (the red-and-gold umbrella once used to shield the Pope from the sun) and the tintinnabulum (a bell mounted on a pole that signals the Pope's arrival). 'Recognition by the Holy See,' Bishop Berardi concluded, 'is not only a great honor for our Vicariate, but also a profound affirmation of the living faith of our people on the Arabian Peninsula.' The date of the solemn celebration of the proclamation of the minor basilica will be announced soon.--Vatican News
