26-12-2023 (KUALA LUMPUR) The host of TV3’s “Women Today” (Wanita Hari Ini, or WHI) found herself at the center of a controversy recently when a video showcasing her fish-cleaning skills, or lack thereof, surfaced on TikTok. The short clip has sparked a heated debate among netizens, highlighting differing opinions on gender roles and expectations.
In the video, two female hosts of WHI are seen presenting a cooking segment for the audience. However, one of the hosts displayed a less-than-proficient technique in cleaning fish, drawing immediate attention and criticism from viewers. TikTok user @Cool_Wannabe82 shared the video, which has garnered over 5.5 million views and 6,100 likes in a short period.
Aq yang lelaki ni pun tau siang ikan…klu gini la alamatnya tk berasap la dapur ???????????????? pic.twitter.com/EznrgMm1NP
— Prince Yoshiro (@Cool_Wannabe82) December 21, 2023
Netizens, particularly male viewers, were quick to express their discontent. One user commented, “As a guy, I know how to handle fish better than she does. It’s obvious that she has never been in the kitchen to cook.” The critique triggered a gender-based online clash, with male netizens questioning the host’s suitability for a women-centric show and female netizens defending her right to success without the necessity of culinary skills.
The criticism ranged from questioning the host’s basic kitchen knowledge to suggesting that she should quickly acquire the necessary skills for her role. On the other side, female netizens fired back, rejecting the idea that cooking proficiency defines a woman’s success.
One user stated, “Are you ashamed of not knowing how to cook? Does every woman have to know how to cook?” Another defended the host by insinuating that those making superficial comments likely rely on their partners to handle household responsibilities.
Amidst the escalating war of words, some level-headed netizens intervened, emphasizing that everyone, irrespective of gender, possesses unique strengths and weaknesses. They called for a more nuanced perspective, discouraging the unnecessary amplification of the issue.