A Facebook post recently caught Malaysians’ attention after an anonymous user shared their confusion about a common dining tradition at Chinese banquets.
Photo via Eating Thai Food
In the post, shared by Meanwhile in Malaysia, the individual wondered why Chinese restaurant set menus always serve fried rice at the very end of a meal, when most guests are already too full to eat.
They explained that during wedding dinners or large banquets, the fried rice often arrives just as guests begin to leave their seats to mingle or head home. As a result, the dish is sometimes left untouched, which the poster described as “wasteful.”
“By the time the fried rice comes, everyone’s already full. Some have even left. Why not serve it earlier so we can enjoy it with the other dishes?” they asked, adding that hotels typically don’t allow guests to pack leftovers, making the situation even more frustrating.
Many netizens responded to the post, offering explanations rooted in culture and tradition. Some pointed out that in Chinese dining etiquette, rice symbolises completeness, which is why it’s served last… to signify a fulfilling meal and a prosperous conclusion. Others mentioned that it’s a gesture of abundance, showing that the hosts have provided more than enough food for everyone.
While the original poster may not have known the reasoning behind it, the discussion opened up an opportunity for Malaysians to appreciate the meaning behind their multicultural dining customs.
After all, Malaysia is a country rich in traditions… and sometimes, what seems unusual at first has deep cultural roots. It’s great that the question was asked, because it helps others understand the beauty behind these practices. In the end, we’re all learning something new every day.
