* Singlish is a largely spoken creole, and as such descriptivism (recording forms that reflect actual pronunciation in spoken language, or as appearing in the linguistic corpus) is more pertinent than strict prescriptivism. Nevertheless, the use of more standard forms (or for words originating in languages with Latin script, such as Malay, accurate to the original spelling) is recommended and encouraged.
also can:
mat moto
mat motor
→
Malay:
mat
+
motor/moto
definitions
noun
- a subculture consisting of (usually Malay) people who have a strong interest or passion about motor vehicles, especially motorcycles
- someone (usually Malay) with a strong interest or passion about motor vehicles, especially motorcycles; a motorhead
Recently, Federal Territories Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor suggested that motorcycle race tracks be provided in certain areas of the capital to meet the needs and interests of young people known as mat moto.
— 2016 March 6, Bernama. Malay Mail, "Know your ‘mat motor’ from your ‘mat rempit’, bike enthusiasts say". https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2016/03/06/know-your-mat-motor-from-your-mat-rempit-bike-enthusiasts-say/1074171
adjective
- of or relating to this subculture
usage notes
Often contrasted with the term mat rempit, which also refers to motorcycle or motor vehicle enthusiasts, but is associated with biker gangs, lawlessness, and illegal activities — in contrast to 'mat motor', an innocuous term with no such connotations.