Less preferred lexis in Iban : Insights from code-switching in Iban radio programmes = LEKSIS YANG KURANG DIGUNAKAN DALAM IBAN: PERSPEKTIF DARI PENUKARAN KOD DALAM PROGRAM RADIO IBAN

Ting, Su Hie and Petronella Langita, Felix (2023) Less preferred lexis in Iban : Insights from code-switching in Iban radio programmes = LEKSIS YANG KURANG DIGUNAKAN DALAM IBAN: PERSPEKTIF DARI PENUKARAN KOD DALAM PROGRAM RADIO IBAN. In: Persidangan Antarabangsa Leksikologi dan Leksikografi Borneo (PALBORNEO), 25-26 Oct 2023, UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAK (UNIMAS).

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Abstract

The study examines less preferred lexis in Iban based on code-switching in Iban radio programmes. Nine hours of audio recordings of Iban radio programmes in WaiFM and 101.3FM, Kuching were analysed. The results showed 187 instances of code-switching, of which 59.26% were for referential functions and 8.99% were quotations. A portion of these code-switching is due to dispreference for Iban lexis. A case is point is the lack of a definite term to refer to “sentimental” feelings, which is why the radio announcers used the Malay word “jiwang” to convey the meaning. However, other usage are due to familiarity of terms in another language and is not a lexis issue (e.g., “Selamat Ari Valentine’s Day ngagai semua kitai”). This study revealed that the Iban language is still lacking in lexis, particularly technological terms and other contemporary concepts. The use of other languages in Iban broadcasts have implications on preservation of the uniqueness of the Iban language.

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