Resident confronts man asking for 'angpao' in viral video

Screenshots showing a foreign man standing outside a house, holding a mandarin orange and colored pencils, presumably seeking angpao from the house. – Taken from @maxxtan5001’s TikTok account.

SHAH ALAM – A social media video sparked online discourse about the customary practice of giving red packets (angpao) during Chinese New Year, particularly after one user confronted a foreign man seeking angpao.

The viral video, uploaded on TikTok by @maxxtan5001, shows a man outside a house holding a mandarin orange and colored pencils.

The netizen, believed to be a resident, confronted the man, questioning his intent and demanding identification.

The man, wearing a KDEB Waste Management (KDEBWM) contractor T-shirt, reportedly sought angpao in multiple houses, causing discomfort among residents who considered it impolite behavior.

Netizens expressed diverse opinions.

Some criticised the resident’s approach as harsh and unnecessary, suggesting offering money politely or involving security.

Others supported the firmness, believing it deters unwanted actions and maintains peace within the community.

Users like @elraf_ and @JaaiCash encouraged kindness and suggested offering food or a small amount of money.

“If you are rich, please make your heart rich too. Just give RM5 and talk nicely. If he is stubborn, just call security or the police,” @elraf_ suggested.

“Come on, just give the food. It’s the celebration now in here, may our humanity beings be blessed in Malaysia,” @JaaiCash urged.

Others like @naomiii793 and @iamdasean expressed concerns about potential intrusion and exploitation, favouring assertive action to discourage similar behavior.

“Seriously, I’ve had trouble with them, using their pity faces to fishing for some empathy, capital of pity, you need to be firm with many of them because they like to take advantage as we are all easy to be used,” @naomiii793 said.

“How do you feel when you are celebrating with your family, and suddenly this crowd comes and asks for money? Sure, if you give it to him, he’ll leave, but he’ll do the same thing the next day and maybe bring some friends too,” @iamdasean said.