A woman has sparked heated debate online after sharing that she asked a friend to return the wedding gift money she gave years ago, as she no longer plans to get married.
The story was posted on Chinese social media and quickly went viral, with many netizens divided over whether the request was reasonable.
Asked for money back after years of no contact
In the post, the woman explained that she had transferred 500 yuan (about RM285) to a friend as a wedding gift around seven to eight years ago.
At the time, she was unable to attend the wedding banquet because she was busy with work.
In a message shared in the screenshot, she wrote:
Hello, it’s me. Time really flies. Your child is already in school.”
She then explained that they had not been in contact for years and she no longer planned to get married herself.
Seven or eight years ago when you got married, I transferred 500 yuan (RM285) as a wedding angpau. We haven’t contacted each other for years.”
Because of this, she asked whether she could have the money returned.
I don’t plan to get married anymore, so I was wondering if I could ask for the money back in advance. I hope you understand.”
Friend returns the money
According to the screenshot, the friend responded politely and transferred the 500 yuan (RM285) back.
The reply read: “I’m still waiting for good news about your happiness. I wish you all the best and may your wishes come true.”
The woman later wrote in her caption that she felt the request was not unreasonable.
I didn’t attend the wedding banquet and didn’t eat the wedding candy. We also haven’t contacted each other for seven or eight years. So I don’t think it’s too much to ask for the wedding money back.”
Netizens divided over the request
The post quickly attracted thousands of comments, with many users sharing different views on the situation.
Some believed asking for the money back was inappropriate.
One commenter wrote: “A wedding gift is meant as a blessing for your friend, not money temporarily stored with them.”
Another user added: “From a social perspective, asking for the gift money back is quite rude.”
However, others felt the situation was understandable since the two had not stayed in touch for many years.
Some said friendships can fade over time and returning the money might simply mark the end of that relationship.
From a practical standpoint, it’s understandable. But socially, it’s like telling the other person the friendship is over,” another wrote.
Another user said: “From a social perspective, asking for the gift money back is quite rude.”
