Language maintenance in Malaysia: identifying the challenges faced by the foreigners in preserving and maintaining their native languages

Foreigners residing in foreign countries often encounter difficulties in maintaining and preserving their native languages, mainly because they find themselves amongst the minority and lack formal platforms to support language preservation efforts. This paper aims to delve into the various issues and challenges faced by foreigners in their pursuit of preserving their mother tongues. To gain insights into these challenges, a qualitative research approach was employed, involving in-depth interview sessions with ten foreigners whose first language is not English. A combination of purposive and convenience sampling methods was used to select the participants. The research framework was constructed based on the Language Identity Theory proposed by Tong and Cheung (2011). The framework comprises of five essential factors of language identity: status, demographic, institutional support, linguistic, and cultural factors. Through this comprehensive framework, the study thoroughly explored the dynamics of language preservation and maintenance among foreigners. The research findings revealed that the foremost challenges faced by foreigners are attributed to environmental influences and their status as linguistic minorities. These factors often push them towards shifting away from their native language and embracing the dominant language of the host country. However, the study also shed light on proactive steps taken by foreigners to prevent language loss and maintain their language identity despite these challenges. In conclusion, this paper offers valuable insights into the challenges faced by foreigners in preserving their native languages. It emphasizes the significance of providing proper support systems and platforms for linguistic minorities to safeguard their language heritage. By understanding the intricacies of language identity and the factors affecting language preservation, policymakers and educators can take informed steps to foster a more inclusive linguistic environment that respects and celebrates the diversity of languages. Ultimately, the research contributes to the ongoing discourse on language preservation and identity in multicultural societies