“Acah Mat Salleh” and Academic Expectations: Exploring Linguistic Investment among Bilingual Students at a Malaysian Higher Education Institution

Abstract

Research on bilingual language use in higher education has shown that bilinguals engage in complex linguistic practices influenced by cultural identity, academic demands, and institutional norms. In Malaysia’s multilingual context, university students often navigate between English and Malay, shaped by both internal motivation and external pressures. This qualitative study examines the linguistic practices of bilingual students in a Malaysian higher education institution, focusing on their motivations for improving English proficiency and the barriers they face. Thematic analysis was conducted on a qualitative survey collected from 43 undergraduate students. Findings reveal that students are highly motivated to improve their English due to academic and professional aspirations, social engagement, and personal interest in media and communication. However, participants also report facing cultural and institutional challenges. This study contributes to understanding how bilingual students in Malaysia manage linguistic expectations and offers insights for educators and institutions aiming to foster balanced bilingual development.