The Endangerment of Small, Indigenous Languages: Lessons from Malaysia

Abstract

In this article, I take the case of Malaysia's indigenous language endangerment into consideration. Because of Malaysia's geopolitical similarities to that of Bangladesh, I believe the study will have significant ramifications for our indigenous languages. In undertaking the study of Malaysia's indigenous languages, I take into account the state of Remun, a relatively small language spoken in the Malaysian state of Sarawak. I begin my study by measuring the level of Remun's endangerment after which I analyze the underlying socio-political factors that in many cases pervade Bangladesh's situations. In methodology, I use both qualitative and quantitative data. I conclude my study by suggesting some measures that may prove to be effective in protecting the indigenous languages across the world in general and in Bangladesh in particular.