Rohan Mehta
Independent Researcher
Gujarat, India
Abstract
This study offers an in-depth examination of the linguistic assimilation and resistance strategies employed by the Tamil diaspora in Malaysia prior to 2020. Situated within broader debates on heritage language maintenance, identity negotiation, and socio-political integration, the research leverages a convergent mixed-methods design to capture both quantitative patterns and qualitative narratives. A structured survey of 250 Tamil speakers across Penang, Kuala Lumpur, and Johor Bahru elucidates frequency and domains of language use for Tamil, Malay, and English, while 30 semi-structured interviews with community leaders, educators, and religious figures uncover the motivational forces behind language choices. Through descriptive statistics, ANOVA tests, and thematic analysis, the study reveals that Tamil remains vigorously maintained in private and religious spheres, even as pragmatic necessities drive Malay and English use in formal education and the workplace. Intergenerational comparisons show a gradual attenuation of Tamil proficiency and emotional attachment among second- and third-generation respondents, with corresponding increases in reliance on English for academic and professional advancement. Community-based institutions—such as Tamil schools, temple associations, and cultural societies—emerge as pivotal agents of resistance, deploying curricular innovations, extracurricular programming, and digital media initiatives to bolster Tamil literacy and cultural transmission. Family practices, including structured “Tamil-only” time, storytelling traditions, and media consumption habits, further reinforce heritage language socialization. The research underscores a dialectical relationship between assimilation and resistance, arguing that strategic bilingualism can coexist with robust heritage language frameworks when supported by cohesive policy measures and community engagement. Policy recommendations include enhanced resource allocation for Tamil-medium schools, curriculum modernization, recognition of diaspora languages in multicultural education policy, and the promotion of Tamil-language digital platforms.
Keywords
Tamil Diaspora, Malaysia, Linguistic Assimilation, Language Resistance, Heritage Language Maintenance
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