Public health issues like the safety of instant noodles and smoking in restaurants affect everyone regardless of your identity, which includes gender.
Recently, a verified public health page on Twitter, @health_malaysia that claims to be a health advocacy page has come under fire for a tweet that warns against vaping.
This is because instead of stating the health impacts of vaping, the tweet targeted hijab-wearing women, highlighting that it is not nice for these women to vape.
“Darling, your face is already pretty, you even wear the hijab. But you’re a vaper,” the tweet reads.
“There is an increase in new users of e-cigarettes among women who have never used tobacco products before. Hijab + hanging pods around the neck is a common sight that can be seen today.”
The tweet also included an image of a WhatsApp chat between two people. In the chat, one of the people chatting loses interest in a hijab-wearing woman when it is revealed that she vapes.
Netizens bash the tweet
Consequently, netizens have criticised the tweet calling it unprofessional and sexist. They questioned why it singled out hijab-wearing women when in reality, the negative health effects of vaping can affect anyone regardless of gender.
“I don’t vape but what does it have to do with hijab-wearing women? Be professional, please.”
“Your job is to spread awareness about health and wellness. Regardless of your gender, it’s the same- vaping can jeopardise your health.”
Additionally, there’re some netizens who’re assuming that the page is run by a government agency as the account is verified with a blue tick. However, it is more likely that the page is not affiliated with any government bodies as there’re no mentions or links to any government website on the page’s Twitter, Facebook and Instagram account.
“These government bodies’ social media approaches are so sloppy. It’s embarrassing.”
What do you think of the tweet? Do you think a more targeted message like it is good?
