A cross-cultural study of migrant workers Malay language learning approaches and intercultural adjustment process in Malaysia
<p>This study aimed to explore how migrant workers (MWs) from Bangladesh, Nepal, and</p><p>Pakistan adjust to Malaysian culture, including their well-being and language</p><p>acquisition. It also examines potential differences in...
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| Format: | thesis |
| Language: | eng |
| Published: |
2023
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://ir.upsi.edu.my/detailsg.php?det=10496 |
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| Summary: | <p>This study aimed to explore how migrant workers (MWs) from Bangladesh, Nepal, and</p><p>Pakistan adjust to Malaysian culture, including their well-being and language</p><p>acquisition. It also examines potential differences in their learning approaches and if</p><p>MWs received orientation/training on Malaysian culture and language or not. Using</p><p>the qualitative methodology and phenomenological approach, thirty MWs were</p><p>interviewed about their lived experiences which were selected via purposive (snowball)</p><p>sampling technique. The thematic analysis indicated 42 themes. NVivo -12 software</p><p>was used to measure response frequency to integrate quantitative elements for a better</p><p>understanding of the data. The results discovered that initially in new culture MWs</p><p>preferred socializing with other MWs from their countries and believed in the</p><p>superiority of their own culture. MWs have faced well-being issues like uncertainty,</p><p>culture shock, isolation, worries, stress, and language difficulties. They were not given</p><p>orientation on Malaysian culture and language before/after migrating. They</p><p>experienced difficulties in communication, thus, began to learn Malay unaided for</p><p>survival purposes, utilizing methods like sign language, Google Translator, and</p><p>language books, without the aid of a teacher. Further, they asked co-workers and other</p><p>MWs the meaning of words in the Malay language. MWs learned to speak the basics</p><p>of Malay language within the first two years, and above, and acquired partial Malay</p><p>language reading and writing skills. With time and developing understanding of the</p><p>Malay language, they progressed toward intercultural adjustment. Comparing the</p><p>learning and adjustment approaches among MWs, Nepalis tend to have more difficulty</p><p>socializing with locals, Pakistanis struggled with adjusting to different lifestyle, and</p><p>Bangladeshis faced challenges in improving their living and working conditions due to</p><p>language and cultural differences. This study highlights need of cultural orientation</p><p>and language training to help MWs for intercultural adjustment in Malaysia.</p><p>Policymakers in Malaysia and MWs' sending countries should consider this.</p> |
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