Akan datang: Limpeh's analysis on being atas in Singapore

Now this is actually an issue that I have covered earlier in the year, but given the tauhuay controversy over the diner en blanc incident, I would like to talk about it again given that I do have a captive audience. LOL - I've had over 1000 hits an hour for most of today, peaking at 1415 hits in the period between 12:00 - 13:00 GMT. Ooh la la.

This whole controversy erupted because of the organizers trying to "bring a formal, elegant presence" to the event - nothing wrong with that spirit since it was what has made DEB successful in so many locations and they do have a valid point about "fast-food and junk food" vs quality food. However, it was the communication of this concept that misfired on so many levels and resulted in offending so many Singaporeans.

I am in two minds about this issue frankly. Whilst I think it is wonderful that people should aspire to create such a special and memorable evening in Singapore, I want to delve into the issue of the Singaporean identity crisis that has resulted in this controversial episode. Now without giving too much away (since this is just an 'akan datang' short piece), I would like to hear your thoughts about the issue, specifically about what it means to be 'atas' (high class). What makes a person atas? Is tauhuay atas?  Leave your answers below, many thanks, merci beaucoup!