Multiethnic intergenerational perspectives on interethnic marriages in Peninsular Malaysia: The challenge of ethno‐religionist identity

Abstract

Against the background of a long history of acceptance of transmigration from various parts of the world and interethnic marriages being embraced, political agendas that prevailed following the independence of Malaysia culminated in a society with increasing ethnic polarisation impacting on social cohesion and reports of aversion to interethnic marriages. This study is aimed at exploring the perspectives of people who have lived through the different sociopolitical changes impacting on the social fabric. Using an exploratory cross-sectional qualitative design, 36 participants from the three main ethnic groups, across three generations (Baby Boomers, Generation Xers, and Millennials) were interviewed to explore their views on interethnic marriages in Peninsular Malaysia. Iterative questioning was adopted to enhance reliability of data, which were processed by thematic analysis. Although each of the generational groups had different lived experiences, the findings indicate commonalities identified in terms of two main themes, i.e., challenges and facilitators. The predominant perception is the challenge of religion conversion required by non-Muslims in relationships with Muslims. The issue of ethnicity did not arise as of concern amongst the different ethnic groups from this urban sample. Of significance is the heightened ethno-religionist consciousness with implications on social cohesion for community relations and nation building.