Mat
Mat is a Singaporean racial slur used to refer to a Malay man, derived from the common Malay name 'Muhammad' shortened to 'Mat.' While it has roots as a neutral nickname, it has taken on negative or stereotyping connotations in certain contexts, particularly when used by non-Malays.
Definitions
Mat is a Singaporean racial slur used to refer to a Malay man, derived from the common Malay name 'Muhammad' shortened to 'Mat.' While it has roots as a neutral nickname, it has taken on negative or stereotyping connotations in certain contexts, particularly when used by non-Malays. Singaporean Malays themselves sometimes reclaim the term in-group. Its register and offensiveness depend heavily on who is using it and how.
The film drew criticism for leaning too hard on the mat stereotype instead of developing its Malay characters fully.
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(Singapore, racial slur) a Malay man.
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