Should Coffee Shops Be Places to Study? Malaysians Debate Café Study Culture

There's no denying that coffee shops have become a favourite hangout spot for students and remote workers alike. For some, they provide the perfect environment to stay productive. For others, they are simply a place to enjoy a meal or catch up with friends.

With more people using cafes for purposes beyond dining, it's perhaps no surprise that the question of whether they are appropriate places to study has once again become a hot topic among Malaysians.

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Image Credit: The Southerner

Recently, a social media user posted a PSA for students, arguing that coffee shops are not places for studying.

"Take note, students. Coffee shops like ZUS Coffee or Kenangan Coffee are not places to study. If you want a quiet place to study, please go to the library. Cafes are for people who want to spend time with their friends and relax. Some of you even shush us when we talk in cafes. Coffee shops should take action on this."

Image Credit: @mdam1r | Threads

To clarify, the user added that while they were talking and laughing, they kept their voices under control and were not being excessively loud out of respect for other patrons.

Many share similar experiences

In the comments section, many users voiced their agreement with the post, saying that coffee shops are not meant for studying. Others also shared similar experiences involving students while hanging out at cafes.

"I remember one time when I went to a café with some friends. We hadn't seen each other in a while, so we were talking and laughing. Then a student shushed us. One of my friends immediately replied, 'If you want to study, go to the library. This is a place where people come to hang out and grab a meal.'"

One user shared, "Some students once gave my wife and me a look when we went to a ZUS Coffee outlet, perhaps because we interrupted their concentration while they were working. They even mumbled something and thought I didn't hear it. If you want to do your assignments, please find another place. Cafes are where people come to hang out."

Image Credit: @mdam1r | Threads

Meanwhile, others pointed out that while there is nothing wrong with studying or working at cafes, people should not be offended by noise because cafes are public spaces.

"Throughout my time studying at cafes, I've never shushed another customer. If someone is being too loud, I simply put on my earbuds because I know I'm in a public space where everyone is free to do what they want."

Image Credit: @mdam1r | Threads

Another user also questioned whether those who study at cafes are actually able to concentrate.

"I just want to ask those who study at cafes: can you really study in a place like that, or are you just pretending? It's so noisy, with people constantly coming and going and conversations happening all around you. Can you seriously concentrate? I think it's better to go to a library where the environment is more suitable."

Image Credit: @mdam1r | Threads

Additionally, another user wished Malaysia had more cafes with dedicated spaces or corners for studying and discussions.

"If only Malaysia had more cafes with dedicated spaces for studying or discussions. But at the same time, you shouldn't go to a public place and act as though you own it to the point of shushing other people."

Are coffee shops meant for studying, or should people expect the usual chatter and noise that comes with a public space? 

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