Code switching among multilingual Sarawak natives in informal conversation / Daya Nalong

This study examines the purposes and functions of code switching in informal conversation as practised by multilingual interlocutors of five ethnic groups in Kuching, Sarawak. This interest surfaced upon hearing the frequency of code switching in informal conversation among Sarawakians living in Kuching, Sarawak. Data were collected through questionnaires and recording of informal conversations of adult multilingual native interlocutors. The data were described in relation to the perceptions of adults in accordance with theories of several sociolinguistic researchers. The study found that the multilingual native interlocutors code switch for several purposes in informal conversations. The most significant purpose is to compensate for linguistic deficiency. Furthermore, the use of code switching by multilingual native interlocutors is for social and linguistic accommodation in informal conversation. Correlations between demographic background, code switching practices and functions reveal that gender and age are the most significant variables that influence the frequent practice of code switching among the interlocutors