Mamak stall

[1] Mamak stalls originate from Tamil Muslims, most of whom migrated from South India and Ceylon (modern-day Sri Lanka) to the Malay Peninsula and other locations in Southeast Asia centuries ago.

Archaeological findings in the Bujang Valley of Kedah suggest a trade relationship with India as early as the 1st to 5th century C.E.

Although the origins of the word are benign and neutral, it can sometimes be used as a derogatory term and insult against the South Asian Muslim community in Malaysia and Singapore, and therefore its usage is generally avoided outside of specifically referring to mamak stalls.

Some are outfitted with large flat screen televisions, or even projectors, so that patrons can catch the latest programs or live matches as they dine.

Despite these innovations, many modern mamak stalls attempt to retain their predecessors' open air dining atmosphere by setting up tables on a patio, the shoplot's walkway, or even on the street.