A local eatery in KL shopping mall has come under fire from Teresa Kok, the Seputeh Member of Parliament (MP) for using a traditional Chinese urinary bedpan as part of its decorative elements.
Seputeh MP slams local eatery for putting traditional Chinese potty as decorations
The MP took to her Facebook page to express her disapproval, calling the display an “appetite killer” for those who recognize the object’s original purpose.
The post, which included a photo of the ancient Chinese bedpan on a display shelf in the restaurant, was accompanied by a caption that read:
“Ancient Chinese urinary bedpan on the display shelf in a local eatery […]. It’s an appetite killer for those who know… Haha!“
The MP’s comment quickly garnered over 3.5k likes and over 130 shares at press time, sparking a debate on the appropriateness of using such items for decorative purposes.
Read also: “Must Have Eaten Too Much” — Teresa Kok Bashed For Insensitive Remark About Syed Saddiq’s Cat
Mixed reactions online
Some netizens agreed with the Seputeh MP’s sentiment, stating that the display was in poor taste and showed a lack of respect for cultural and historical items.
“Can be displayed at other places but not together with the kitchenware.”
They argued that the restaurant should have considered the feelings of customers who might find the sight of the bedpan unappetizing or offensive.
One also asked the MP to inform the restaurant owner as it was the right thing to do.
They pointed out that many restaurants and cafes use various historical objects as decorations, and this instance should be treated no differently.
Another netizen also urged the Seputeh MP to not make assumption as the traditional potty has auspicious meaning in Chinese wedding.
“It’s a gift from the bride to the groom […] Usually wrapped in a red paper and a young toddler would be asked to break the paper and reveal the auspicious item inside the chamber pot.”
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