Knowledge and Use of Archaic Words among Sarawak Malay Dialect Speakers in Kuching

Abstract

This study examines the level of knowledge and use of archaic words among speakers of the Sarawak Malay dialect in Kuching, Sarawak. Specifically, it aims to identify the extent to which archaic lexical items are recognised, understood, and used across different generations, as well as to explain the phenomenon of lexical attrition through Halliday’s Systemic Functional Linguistics (1978). A quantitative research design was employed using a structured online questionnaire (Google Forms) administered to 111 respondents aged between 15 and 45 years. The respondents were divided into three age groups (15–25, 26–35, and 36–45 years) to facilitate generational comparison. The findings indicate that younger speakers are familiar with certain archaic words but rarely use them in daily communication, particularly in modern social and digital contexts. In contrast, respondents aged 26–35 years use archaic words selectively, mainly during family and social interactions, while older speakers demonstrate the highest levels of knowledge and the most consistent use of archaic vocabulary. The findings further suggest that language shift, urbanisation, formal education, and the increasing influence of Standard Malay and English contribute to the gradual decline of traditional lexical items. Based on the perspective of Systemic Functional Linguistics, the reduction in the use of archaic words reflects changes in the social functions of language and communicative practices within the Sarawak Malay community. This study contributes to the documentation of the Sarawak Malay dialect and provides insights into efforts aimed at preserving its linguistic heritage.