The Challenge of Diversity: Heritage Language Retention and The Shaping of the Malay Muslim Identity in the Three Southern Border Provinces of Thailand
Accordingly, this study is an exploration of heritage language significance for ethnic identity sustenance among the Malay-Muslim community in southern Thailand. Therefore, the general aim of this study is to explain why, how and to what extent does language as an ethnic denominator has played a vital role in determining the preservation of ethnic identity among the Malay-Muslim minority of southern Thailand. The specific objectives of this study are as follows:
2.1 To investigate the status of Malay ethnic identity vis-?-vis Thai national identity.
2.2 To explore the extent language constitutes vital elements within the Malay ethnic identity among the Malays of southern Thailand
