Hello everyone,
How are you? I hope you're having a wonderful day—one that's even better than yesterday. It's Friday, the day I always look forward to because tomorrow is... party day! or i think it's just another good rest day for me.
While I'm writing this post, I'm listening to a long playlist—and I’m sharing it with you, so you can enjoy the music too. Please let me know if you like this playlist
Today, I come with a question that’s been on my mind, and I’ve been searching for some answers through Google. So , just for introduction that all the information in today’s post is based on what I’ve gathered from Mr . Google and all the credit goes to the writes .
I believe we grow up through different phases of mindset—from childhood to being a kid, then teenagers, and beyond. Along the way, we’ve always known someone who’s considered a "bad boy" in the group. Sometimes, that bad boy attitude even led some of our friends into real trouble or crime.
But what actually defines a bad boy? Is there a specific name or term that captures not just the behavior, but also the culture, style, mindset, and influence behind it?
MALAYSIA
Let’s take an example from our own country, Malaysia. There’s a well-known group called the “Mat Rempit”, who are often associated with motorcycles. This group has long been seen as part of the "bad boy" culture here. Most of them are young men who ride modified motorbikes recklessly on public roads, often without helmets, and sometimes even performing dangerous stunts.
They’re usually active late at night, especially on weekends, and their activities often disturb the peace. Many of them engage in illegal street racing, creating noise and risking not only their own lives but also the safety of others on the road. Because of this, Mat Rempit are often looked down on by society and portrayed negatively in the media.
However, not all of them are purely rebellious. Some are just youth looking for a sense of thrill, belonging, or an outlet for their energy—often due to a lack of proper facilities or positive environments to express themselves. While some do fall into crime, others are simply influenced by peer pressure or the excitement of living on the edge.
INDONESIA
While in Indonesia, I believe there was a group known as JAMET.
"Jamet" is a word formed by blending two Indonesian words:
"Jambret" (snatcher) and "Metal" (as in heavy metal), though it doesn't necessarily mean someone is a thief or into metal music.
Their image or dress style is considered tacky, over-the-top, excessive, and sometimes inappropriate for general social context, often being labeled as a bad boy group during its time.
Many may find the look “cringe,” but those who are part of the group cherish it as a place where they belong. In many ways, Jamet culture reflects deeper social layers. Over time, the term has taken on its own meaning, focusing more on visual style and attitude rather than any direct criminal association.
SINGAPORE
We also often hear the word “Ah Beng”, which is popular in Singapore and commonly used to describe a young Chinese male who typically adopts a loud, flashy, and rebellious lifestyle. They are usually recognized by their dyed or spiked hair, flashy clothing, and sometimes tattoos on their bodies. Ah Bengs often have a passion for modified cars or motorbikes, especially those with loud exhausts, and are frequently seen loitering in malls, arcades, or cybercafés.
Though some of their behaviours may be seen as disruptive or immature, Ah Beng culture represents a unique subculture. Over the years, the term has softened in perception. Today, many people see Ah Bengs as loyal, humorous, and genuine—even if they're a bit rough around the edges.
PHILIPPINES
JEJEMON is very popular in late 2000's especially with the youth . They believe that they come from unique species where the "species" of JEJEMON come from a varition of hehe and mon from pokemon.
Jejemons were easily recognized not only by their text language, which was full of random capitalization, extra letters, and symbols (ex: “eow phOwz! mUsZtAh nA y0h?!”), but also by their fashion style — colorful outfits, flat-brim caps, big eyeglasses, and layered accessories.
Although often mocked or labeled as “cringe” by others, the Jejemon style was a way of expressing identity and rebellion. It reflected a mix of creativity, street style, and the influence of hip-hop, anime, and digital culture. Just like other subcultures such as Ah Beng in Singapore or Jamet in Indonesia, Jejemons found a community where they could feel accepted.
VIETNAM
“Boy Phở” is often used flirtatiously by girls to describe a "bad boy with a soft heart." It originally started as a fun nickname but has since grown into a slang label for a certain type of trendy young man.
A "Boy Phở" isn’t necessarily rich or flashy like some other subcultures. Instead, he’s laid-back, friendly, and effortlessly cool — often seen in streetwear, open shirts, vintage jackets, or even tank tops that show off tattoos.
Just imagine a guy who’s stylish and charming, with a chill street vibe. He likes to hang out at phở stalls late at night, rides his motorbike with confidence, and carries a naturally street-smart aura.
THAILAND
“Dek Waen” (เด็กแว้น) is a Thai slang term used to describe young motorbike street racers — often seen as the rebellious “bad boys” of Thai streets. The name comes from the Thai word “waen” (แว้น), which imitates the loud revving sound of modified motorbikes, typically with no mufflers.
They usually ride in groups late at night while wearing casual or sporty clothes (sometimes with masks or helmets for style more than safety). Usually they ll modifying scooters or underbone motorbikes for speed and loud sound.
They often race illegally on city roads and are sometimes seen as a public nuisance, especially by the older generation and authorities. However, like other subcultures, Dek Waen is more than just chaos — for many, it’s about freedom, identity, brotherhood, and finding a sense of belonging.
While they’re criticized for dangerous behavior, they also reflect deeper social and economic layers, such as youth seeking thrill, recognition, or escape from boredom in urban life.
Today’s post gave me something new to learn — that being a "bad boy" or part of a so-called rebellious culture doesn't necessarily mean someone is a criminal. While it's true that a small minority may get involved in crime, most of them are simply young people trying to express themselves, find identity, or be accepted in a group where they feel they belong.
These subcultures — whether it's Mat Rempit in Malaysia, Jamet in Indonesia, Ah Beng in Singapore, or Dek Waen in Thailand — often reflect deeper stories about society, youth, and personal struggles. Behind the flashy looks or loud attitudes, many of them are just looking for recognition, connection, and a place where they don’t feel judged.
Thanks for stopping by , i hope you enjoy today series and see you in next post.