Caught Between Tongues

This study, titled “Caught Between Tongues: Language Learning, Dialectal Divide, and Belonging in Brunei,” investigates the experiences of international students learning Malay in Brunei Darussalam, focusing on the impact of the dialectal divide between Standard Malay and Brunei Malay. Employing a qualitative narrative inquiry approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews, classroom observations, and document analysis of teaching materials. The analysis reveals a significant linguistic mismatch, leading to feelings of frustration and reduced communicative confidence among students, who often relied on English for communication. Classroom observations indicated that instructors adapted their teaching methods to accommodate varying proficiency levels, yet this limited immersive practice in Malay. The study advocates for pedagogical approaches that integrate local dialects and promote peer support, ultimately enhancing students' cultural integration and sense of belonging.