We Are Human, Not Cable Chargers

Let's get serious today. Because it's Ramadhan, we should be good and do good things.

Today, I came across a discussion on Facebook about the closure of one of the oldest McDonald's outlets in our mall. Initially, the conversation was filled with sadness and nostalgia. But soon, it took a turn—a turn towards unnecessary racial blame.  

Some people started pointing fingers, questioning why certain racial groups, like the Chinese and Indians, weren’t supporting the business. They linked it to the boycott campaign for Palestine, implying that these communities lacked empathy. Then came the subtly comments on Type C, type M, and type H thing. What are we? A cable charger?And now, ironically, some of those same voices are upset that many Malays are losing jobs due to the closure.  

But here’s the reality— business decisions are not based on race or religion. They are based on economics, demand, and sustainability. I’ve seen with my own eyes that the outlet didn’t hire only from one race. Yes, since the area has a Malay majority, naturally, there were more Malay workers. But there were also Chinese and Indian employees. It was never about exclusion—it was about demographics.  

Another thing to remember is that this is not the end —businesses close, and new ones take their place. Maybe a different brand will set up shop there soon. That’s just how the business world works. Instead of blaming and dividing, why not channel our energy into supporting the workers who have been let go? Wishing them the best in finding new opportunities, and hoping that the mall management secures a new tenant soon.  

At the end of the day, we are human. We are not cable chargers. We don’t exist just to "power up" a specific cause, movement, or expectation set by others. We all have our own circumstances, choices, and perspectives.  

So let’s be good.  

Let’s be human.