Socio-cognitive Analysis on the Attitude of Gen Z Towards Malay Language in the Era of Industrial Revolution 4.0.

Abstract

The Fourth Industrial Revolution (IR 4.0) which emphasizes more on science and technology and the need to master the area in English seem to impact on the formation of identity of the Malay language. Thus, this study aims to identify and analyze the identity of Malay language among Gen Z, the generation born and grew up in this era. In this respect, appreciation and practice of the Malay language which are the components of identity were also investigated, particularly from the socio-cognitive perspective. Data were obtained from 660 respondents from a survey using Google forms. The respondents consisted of Gen Z throughout Malaysia who received invitations based on set criteria, covering urban, suburban and rural clusters. Research instruments developed specifically for this study have a high level of validity and reliability, namely α = .75 to α = .91. Data were analyzed descriptively and inferentially using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25.0 software. This study utilizes Sociocognitive Theory and Socio-cognitive approach to describe the relationship between Sociocognitive elements with the identity of Malay language among Gen Z. In general, the study concluded that 50.0% of Gen Z are in the early phase of fading language identity. The study also notes that 62.1% of Gen Z have negative attitude towards the Malay language, 73.0% have negative perceptions of the Malay language and 40.0% have the low practice level of Malay language. However, the study found that 83.4% of Gen Z have high appreciation of the Malay language. In order to ensure the identity of Malay language among Gen Z can be maintained, the study suggested that the stakeholders in policy-making can make the subject of the Malay language as a compulsory elective course in all higher education institutions, both public or private, as a requirement for graduation.