Malaysia is all about mixing it up with languages and cultures, with English for tourists and our national language keeping us together. But, not everyone’s up to speed with Mandarin, right?
This didn’t seem to click for a tourist from China, who went full-on Mandarin mode with a Starbucks staff.
Despite the language barrier and an unconventional approach to payment, the staff’s unwavering smile and patience have won the internet’s praise.
In a viral Dou Yin video which reshared on Facebook, a male tourist with a Chinese accent is seen at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport Starbucks, attempting to order a large latte in Mandarin.
Initially puzzled, the Malay female staff member quickly deciphered the order as “Latte” and kindly asked about the desired sugar level.
“Sugar? What’s that?” he puzzledly asks a friend, who steps in to translate.
Deciding he wants his coffee just the regular kind of sweet, he nonchalantly tosses a RM100 note onto the counter.
The plot thickens as the barista gently asks if he’s got anything smaller, leading to an exchange for a RM20 note.
Throughout the interaction, the tourist continued to speak in Mandarin.
Despite the apparent communication challenge, the staff member maintained a friendly demeanor and provided service.
Staff continue to serve with a friendly attitude
The video’s spread led netizens to laud the staff’s composure and suggest that Starbucks Malaysia should recognize and possibly reward her for her exemplary service.
Some also criticized the tourist’s manners in speaking and payment, highlighting a lack of courtesy.
“This is not respectful to the staff.”
Many praised the staff for her attitude despite the customer’s actions.
