11th GM: Fine Dining Etiquette

Reported by Rtr Susan

Salad fork, fish knife or dessert spoon is not something that we encounter daily, in our fusion of kopitiam, mamak stall and fast food culture. But there will be time, when we find ourselves sitting in a fancy hotel feeling overwhelmed by the sparkling cutlery in front of us. And the fact that, we were surrounded by those fine people that we have just came to know five minutes ago is not making it any easier. Honestly, in that situation the good table manners we learned at home is just not enough.

Realizing that fact, on 7th December twenty four of RACKM members and guests gathered at Renaissance Malacca Hotel to get professional guidance on dining a proper way, continental style. Our facilitator for that evening is Mr. T. Arivananthan, from the Renaissance Melaka Hotel. He started by reciting a funny story that carry out a message; please do not blindly follow others because they might be doing just the wrong thing. And that applies not only in dining but in many areas of our life. A thoughtful message before appetizer, I must say.

A good example of what you shouldn't do

Umm... the salad looks yummy!

The evening went smoothly from appetizer through dessert with enlightenments from Mr. T. Arivananthan every now and then, plus some astonishing questions from our group. Throughout the entire course we were not only introduced to numerous of cutlery used but also how to conduct good body language and carry out pleasant conversations with our fellow diners. Dining etiquette is not only concerning which fork or spoon to use next but also about looking decent while you are eating. Sitting straight while keeping both feet on the floor might cause backache and stiff legs halfway through the main course, but given a number of gifted comedians in the midst of us, the atmosphere was exceptionally warm.

President Greg 'murdering' his chicken

For a first timer, I have to admit that it might take a little while to get used to the whole concept of continental dining etiquette. Mainly, because it not something that we practice daily. But still, the real implication of having etiquette rules is to make us comfortable. It is some sort of standards that people abide by, which you can have confidence that you are behaving appropriately.

We left that night with a new air of poise and full stomach, of course. It was another well spent time for the record!

All the happy faces