As more Malaysian students prepare to enter higher education, laptops have become a must-have for assignments, research, and daily coursework.
Recently, a local laptop seller took to Threads to share his frustration after encountering students who allegedly try to take advantage of their parents by requesting high-end, pricey devices under the pretext of “study needs”.
Asking for gaming laptops
According to the seller, some students would exaggerate their academic requirements just to justify getting premium gaming laptops.
To those who are about to enter university, there’s no need to sweet-talk your parents into buying you a gaming laptop,” he said.
He explained that for most courses, including software engineering, a standard laptop with moderate specifications is more than sufficient.
Shocked when students request high-end models
The seller recalled instances where parents, especially those from less financially stable backgrounds, would visit his shop to purchase laptops for their children.
However, he was surprised to find that some students were requesting high-end models like the Acer Predator Helios 16, a gaming laptop that can cost anywhere from RM8,000 to RM16,000 depending on specifications.
When I asked what course they were taking, turns out it was just electrical. I immediately suggested they go for a more basic laptop instead,” he shared.
Sympathises with parents footing the bill
He added that he often feels sorry for parents who work hard to afford such purchases, only to have their children demand devices that go beyond their actual needs.
I feel sorry for parents who have to work hard to earn money just to meet their children’s demands,” he said, stressing that purchases should be based on necessity rather than desire.
Reflecting on his own upbringing, he shared that he was always taught to think carefully before spending money, out of consideration for his parents’ sacrifices.
Netizens urge parents to double-check before buying
The post quickly gained traction online, with many netizens agreeing with the seller’s sentiments.
Some advised parents to do proper research or seek second opinions before committing to expensive purchases.
“To parents out there who are still unsure about buying laptops, don’t just follow your child’s request. Ask the shop staff for advice because not all university courses require powerful laptops, some that cost just over RM1,000 are already sufficient.”
“Sometimes we need to educate parents who come to buy laptops… as long as they can afford it, they’ll follow whatever their kids want because their children are still not mature enough.”
“When buying a laptop, make sure the specs are up-to-date, preferably one that can support high graphics. Software requirements keep increasing over time, so it’s better if it can last until you start working.”
