User on X shares tips and comebacks for handling nosy relatives at family events without losing any cool
FAMILY gatherings can get tense when some relatives take things too far.
Arguments or awkward moments usually pop up when certain relatives push too hard or ask questions meant to provoke.
A user shared his experience on X with what Malays often call a ‘mak cik bawang’—a label for a nosy aunt who prides herself on asking pointed questions, particularly common at family get-togethers.
“My son’s in Australia now and probably earns more than you. You’re still a dentist in Malaysia, huh?” she asked @guttapercha80.
He fired back: “Auntie, if he’s so rich, why did he leave you in Malaysia?”
The response left his aunt furious. She said, “Why are you so sensitive?” To which he replied, “Yeah, that’s why be careful—glass shards can cut people.”
“I’m usually quiet and prefer to keep to myself (I have eight aunts, two uncles, and 31 cousins), but don’t provoke me, okay?”
This year, she’s said to be in Australia with her son, avoiding the family gathering, he added.
Other users shared their own experiences and advice.
@segijiwa said, “Yes—the spicy comeback (without being disrespectful). That’s how I navigate Raya, and what I recommend to friends who feel hurt when older people ask questions meant to offend. Older people are not stupid—they know these questions are patronising. Be creative, folks!”
@ennietrando shared a similar experience: during a brother’s funeral, a nosy aunt asked, “You’re so old already, when are you getting married?” She replied, “I heard your daughter’s divorce case is still pending in court, right?” The comment ended the conversation immediately.
Other users reflected on family dynamics. @psunster said he only visits Australia for friends and relatives, not the place itself, while @susnugsandtoes appreciated a family that doesn’t compare wealth.
@hesvitae recounted being asked why they were still overweight by an uncle, and responded with a question about his divorce, which led to two years of silence.
The user then advised Malay readers approaching Raya: “If you have a mak cik bawang like this, remember to be an ‘anak saudara rempah’. Make them experience what it feels like to bite into a spice.”
The Sun Malaysia
