Language Transformation and Innovation in Online Malaysian English

This study investigates the existence of some prominent features in Malaysian Online Communicative English Language that may categorize itself as a transformation to another sub-variety of Malaysian English in online communication settings. This new variety, which is mutually intelligible amongst its users, may lead to the formation of a new linguistic community that is basically dominated by the younger generation. This is identified through the criteria of language variety given by early researchers, such as the influence of first language, code switching, the use of certain words and many more. By employing Virtual Ethnography, a one-year of Facebook-conversation among 120 young Malaysians from different ethnic groups, mother tongues, and cultural backgrounds was observed, and recorded. Data were meticulously examined using Content Analysis. Findings significantly suggest that Malaysian Online Communicative English has beentransformed into another sub-variety of Malaysian English that signifies the identity of young Malaysian Facebook users.