While shopping for groceries in Tutong with my wife and kids, I was approached by a foreign man who spoke with a distinct Malay accent.
He was holding a cream in his hand and greeted me cordially, asking if I wanted to try a ‘miraculous’ whitening cream.
When I politely declined, he grabbed my right arm and insisted that I let him dab some on me.
Feeling aggravated, I responded in a much sterner voice, “Sorry, I’m not interested,” (in Malay) and pushed my way forward, urging my wife and kids, who were behind me, to move quickly.
It was far too brazen for the salesperson to physically pressure me to try the product, especially after I had clearly said no. While I understand he was just doing his job and trying to market his products, he crossed the line by putting his hands on me.
Apparently, these so-called ‘hand cream salesmen’ have been around for some time, and their presence at business fairs and trade expos has caused quite a stir with their bold and invasive tactics.
Some gullible individuals might give in to their persistence, but others, like me, would rather avoid them altogether. Are there any avenues for consumers to report such unethical marketing practices? Because of this unpleasant encounter, we decided to shop at another store instead.
Annoyed
