Just days before the summer break, social media users have once again lit up with buzz over an unexpected trending item: thousands of rattan canes are suddenly selling like hotcakes on e-commerce platforms.

On Shopee, these flexible canes, measuring 70–80 cm in length, are flying off virtual shelves. Although product descriptions list uses like decoration, floral arrangements, pet care, and gardening, buyer reviews cheekily suggest a more familiar function - disciplining children.

The rattan cane, dubbed a “legendary tool” by many in the 8X and 9X generations, brings back vivid memories of a stricter era when it was a staple in traditional household parenting.

Priced affordably from 5,000 to 10,000 VND (approx. 0.20 to 0.40 USD) per stick depending on combo quantity, these nostalgic canes are selling in bulk.

One shop confidently claims its canes are flexible, durable for up to 10 years, and “authentic.” That shop has sold over 2,300 combos of four sticks each.

Another vendor has surpassed 10,500 combos of three sticks, offered for just 17,500 VND (approx. 0.70 USD).

Despite the basic description - “pure rattan, no chemical treatment, 70–80cm in length, 7mm–1cm diameter, like a chopstick or slightly thicker” - the product has seen massive customer interest.

What fueled this wave of attention were the amusing customer reviews. Many of them are tongue-in-cheek but laced with personal anecdotes that struck a chord with thousands of nostalgic readers.

“This product is excellent for light discipline - five stars!” wrote one buyer. Another commented, “Strong and solid cane, makes a crisp swish when swung - very satisfying.”

One humorous review read: “Perfect for decorating a child’s study desk - definitely boosts study motivation.”

On social media forums, the topic has sparked thousands of comments filled with both humor and childhood reminiscence.

“These days you have to go online to find a cane - unlike before, when we had a rattan bush right outside. Every time mom came back from a parent-teacher meeting, we knew exactly where she was headed,” one user joked. “Just thinking about it still gives me chills.”

Some users commented that even in the digital age, traditional discipline tools still hold practical value - though often more symbolic or humorous than serious.

Vu Cong Hoc, an e-commerce expert, noted: “Buyers may genuinely use them for crafts, pets, or floral design - not necessarily for disciplining children. If the item promoted violence, it wouldn’t be allowed on major platforms.”

He added that corporal punishment is no longer a viable or sustainable parenting method in today’s era.

Duy Anh