A food delivery rider sparks debate on tipping culture, noting B40 customers often tip more generously than T20 in Malaysia.
A MALAYSIAN food delivery rider has initiated a lively online discussion about tipping culture after sharing his experience of receiving generous tips from customers during deliveries.
The debate began when a Threads user, believed to be a food rider, posted photos showing cash tips he had received while working. One image showed him holding a RM10 note, while another featured a RM50 tip.
Accompanying the images was a caption that quickly caught the attention of social media users.
“Sometimes B40 people are more generous than T20 when it comes to tipping riders,” he wrote.
The post soon gained traction, prompting discussions about generosity, appreciation for service workers and whether tipping should become more common in Malaysia.
While some users interpreted the post as a simple expression of gratitude, others argued that tipping should not be expected in a country where service charges are already common in many sectors.
“Why should I tip? I pay for the service and you provide the service, that’s the agreement. Asking for tips isn’t really part of our culture,” commented one user, identified as quail.9757222.
Others, however, felt that tipping can serve as a gesture of appreciation for exceptional service rather than an obligation.
User nurazaniee said she occasionally tips workers who go above and beyond in carrying out their duties.
“I’m B40, but I still like tipping people who genuinely deserve it. To me, it’s a small token of appreciation that encourages them to keep up their positive attitude and not see it as ‘just a job’.
“I want people to feel appreciated for the effort they put in. Imagine it’s pouring rain, you’ve placed a priority order, and the rider still manages to deliver your food on time. That’s exceptional service.
“So what’s a few extra ringgit as a tip?
“I’m not saying we should tip everyone, but if someone has truly gone the extra mile and earned it, why not?” she wrote.
Another commenter, who identified himself as a delivery rider, said his personal experience mirrored the original poster’s observations.
“I’ve been a rider for two years, and the people who most often give tips, offer us drinks, or even invite us to have some food are usually those from the B40 group.
“Not saying T20 customers don’t tip—some definitely do—but in my experience, it’s the average families who tend to be more generous and willing to share what they have,” said user da.niallo.
