Language choices among the kedayan ethnic minority in Bekenu, Sarawak: A preliminary study

Abstract

Kedayan is one of the minority ethnic groups in Bekenu, Sibuti, situated on the northern part of Sarawak. In previous studies, it was reported that most of the minority languages in Sarawak are facing language endangerment due to modernisation. This study investigates and reports on the language choices among the Kedayan community in Bekenu in order to determine the resilience of this language due to the wide usage of the Malay language, Sarawak Malay dialect and Iban language in Sarawak. This study utilizes Fishman’s (1972) domain and language choice framework to study these issues. Five domains have been selected in this study, namely family, friendship, religion, education and employment domains. The quantitative data was obtained through questionnaire surveys and face to face interviews, whereas the qualitative data was secured through observations. A total of ninety informans from three different ages group were selected based on quota sampling method. This study found that the Kedayan language is resilient although it receives pressure from Sarawak Malay dialect and Iban language. The Kedayan language is the main language of interaction in all domains as well as the default language of the Kedayans. Although the Sarawak Malay dialect and Iban language are used regularly by the Kedayans, the Kedayan language is able to sustain its status and is considered at a ‘safe’ level compared to other minoritiy languages in Sarawak.