Earlier this week, an Instagram post from a London-based Malaysian pastor named David Yeow expressing his concern over the new regulations implemented by London’s Malaysia Hall canteen had been circulating recently.
Malaysia Hall is a community centre located in Queensborough Terrace, London and is operated by the Malaysian High Commission. The canteen serves affordable Malaysian food and is mostly frequented by students or permanent residents who long for a taste of home. Up until recently, non-Malaysians were also allowed into its canteen as long as they were accompanied by Malaysians.
Source: Peaches & Donuts | Blogspot
However, according to David Yeow’s post, the entrance to the canteen is now chained up and visitors need to use the Malaysian Embassy’s main entrance, where people have to show their identification to prove that they are Malaysian citizens before being allowed entry.
He added that two French citizens were told by staff that “Malaysia Hall was for Malaysians only” before being turned away.
Seeking an explanation as to why non-Malaysians are not allowed, Yeow asked the receptionist who checked his MyKad. The receptionist told him,
“Malaysian Hall Canteen will only be serving Malaysians from now on. Because this is a diplomatic building with security risks involved and because the food is subsidised by the Malaysian government, it is only fair that only Malaysians get to enjoy it.”
In light of this, foreign minister Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah was reportedly shocked upon hearing this news, as he was unaware of this alleged new policy, as reported by the Malay Mail.
“I have to check whether there is such a policy or not. I’ll find out. No, I have not heard anything about this. Normally we are quite open. I better find out as soon as possible.”
Well, let’s hope our foreign minister sorts this issue out soon. Everyone should be able to enjoy our food!
Also read: Malaysian Astonishingly Travels From Kuala Lumpur to London ONLY By Cycling
