Whenever we dine at restaurants, we would sometimes ask for some hot water to quickly rinse our utensils to get rid of any germs — a service that’s usually free of charge.
A customer was left shocked and enraged after he was charged 50 sen for the exact same service, a move which he found outrageous.
Charged 50 sen for hot water to wash utensils
Recounting the incident to China Press, the customer named Gong Haoyi (transliteration) said he brought his parents to dine at a restaurant in Ipoh and requested for some hot water to wash their utensils.
When the bill came, he was stunned to see that he was charged 50 sen for the hot water.
“Although 50 sen isn’t a huge amount, but we weren’t informed that we would be charged for the hot water. Moreover, large restaurants do not charge for providing hot water to wash utensils.
“I often visit Ipoh for its cheap and delicious food and this is the first time I’ve encountered something unpleasant.
“I’ve lodged a complaint with the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDNHEP) but I’m unsure whether they will take action although they’ve received the complaint,” he said.
Gong also cautioned public and tourists when they dined at restaurants and hoped that businesses would not impose any hidden charges, adding that business associations should monitor their members.
Restaurant owner responds
On the other hand, the restaurant owner cried foul over Gong’s grouses, arguing that it wasn’t unreasonable to charge customers for hot water.
The utensils provided to customers are already clean, and the hot water has to be boiled separately, thus adding on to our operating costs.
“Large restaurants charge a service fee as their dishes cost at least RM10 to RM20. Therefore, it’s understandable that they provide hot water for free.
“But that’s not the case for my restaurant as I sell fried noodles for less than RM10 and do not charge a service fee,” he explained.
The restaurant owner added that the 50 sen charge was in effect a few months ago, adding that this was the first time he had gotten a complaint about it.
However, to avoid a similar incident from occurring, he said he will post a notice to inform customers about the extra charge.
Do you agree with the 50 sen charge? Share with us in the comment section!
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