What began as a late-night supper outing turned into a chaotic scene at a popular nasi kandar restaurant in Selangor when a dispute over smoking escalated into a physical fight. A video of the incident, which quickly spread across TikTok, showed an older man confronting a young couple, sparking a tussle that drew widespread attention online.
The pregnant wife had started recording the encounter after tensions flared, but was shoved by the man, leading to a scuffle involving her husband. Shocked diners looked on as the argument spiralled out of control.
Couple Concerned Over Secondhand Smoke.
According to reports from Harian Metro, the confrontation happened at about 11.50pm on 11 September. The couple had requested that the man refrain from smoking, citing the expectant mother’s health and her concern for her unborn baby.
Shah Alam police later confirmed that the woman was eight months pregnant at the time. Her husband had repeatedly asked the diner to put out his cigarette, but the man allegedly ignored the requests and the eatery’s staff intervention.
Tensions mounted when the husband began recording the situation on his phone. The smoker reacted by pushing his hand away, causing the device to fall. The argument quickly turned physical, with both men shoving each other before the smoker left the premises.
Investigation and Public Reaction
The restaurant manager has since apologised to the affected couple, saying he would have intervened if he had not been on leave. Meanwhile, the viral video drew strong reactions from netizens, who identified the smoker and threatened to boycott the tyre shop where he is employed.
Police are now investigating the matter under Section 14 of Malaysia’s Minor Offences Act for indecent behaviour, which carries a fine of up to RM100 (about S$30). Additionally, an investigation paper has been opened under Section 323 of the Penal Code for voluntarily causing hurt, which could result in a maximum jail term of one year, a fine of up to RM2,000 (around S$610), or both.
The case highlights ongoing tensions in public dining spaces over smoking in Malaysia, especially with stricter laws and health concerns for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women.