Choose as Indonesian but Act as Malaysian: Overview of National Identity and Linguistics of Indonesia-Malaysia Border Communities

Abstract

This study aims to see how national identity is at the Indonesia-Malaysia border. This field study was conducted in the villages of Sebunga and Temajuk in Indonesia, which are directly adjacent to the village of Telok Melano in Malaysia. In terms of language, the two communities use or at least can speak the same language, namely, Iban/Bidayuh Malay. It turns out that the different functions as an identity; so, they can choose to be Indonesian or Malaysian. This study strengthens the conclusion that the true state boundary is still just an imagination. An imagination controlled by language and pragmatic choice. The results show that the boundary between Indonesia and Malaysia in this region has been clearly defined. Physically, there are boundary markers and cross-border posts guarded by the Border Security Army (Pamtas). In addition, residential areas are also separated. However, in reality, in some ways, the limit is a pseudo.