'Why only English and Chinese books?' — Customer questions why Popular Bookstore voucher cannot be used for Malay and Tamil books

SINGAPORE: A netizen’s question about a discount voucher issued by Popular Book Co has triggered mixed reactions online, with some raising concerns about inclusivity while others pointed to business considerations such as supply and demand.

In a post uploaded to the Complaint Singapore page, Facebook user Tak Ada Nama questioned why the voucher was limited to certain categories of books.

“Why only English and Chinese books? I thought Singapore has 4 main race? Indian and Malay books cannot use vouchers?” the netizen wrote.

The voucher in question states that it is valid until June 30, 2026, with a minimum $30 net spend in a single receipt at Popular bookstores. It applies only to English, Chinese and assessment books, and excludes a range of other items, including textbooks, gadgets and promotional products. It also cannot be used in conjunction with other discounts and is limited to one-time use.

The restriction on language categories prompted differing views among commenters.

Some felt the issue was not significant, pointing to the apparent lack of demand for Malay and Tamil titles. One commenter, Aszafirah Zafyrah, wrote: “Not many Malay books in Popular also, why bother want to use the vouchers for.. so many English books to buy, i would rather spend on than bothering about this petty thing.”

Others emphasised that businesses are entitled to set their own terms. A user going by the name WhySoSaltyAndSour commented: “Popular has the right to decide. It's their voucher, their rights. It only becomes discriminatory if let's say they only offer these discounts to Chinese.”

The same commenter added that the decision could be tied to sales performance, suggesting that English and Chinese books may have higher consumption rates compared to Malay and Tamil titles.

Similar sentiments were echoed by others. One netizen, Mike King, said he had not noticed Malay or Tamil books being sold at the chain, while another, Justin Lim, suggested that discounts are often used to clear excess stock, adding: “Chinese and English books print too much but nobody buy, of course have to cut price.”

Another commenter, MysticalLychee8559, attributed the policy to “supply and demand,” noting that there may be greater surplus in English and Chinese book inventories due to higher print volumes.

However, not all responses were dismissive of the original concern. One user, HandsomeEagle8443, said the policy felt “a bit discriminatory,” adding that minorities might feel excluded even if the intent was not explicit.

While the voucher terms themselves are clearly stated, the online discussion shows how such policies can still prompt wider conversations about fairness and perception.