Language Shift and Identity Conflict among Kensiu Youth: A Systematic Review of Indigenous Cultural Sustainability

Abstract

The Kensiu language, an endangered Mon-Khmer tongue spoken by a specific Orang Asli subgroup in Malaysia, represents a critical facet of indigenous heritage currently facing threats from rapid modernization and socio-cultural assimilation. This study addresses the escalating problem of identity conflict among the younger generation of Kensiu speakers, who increasingly struggle to reconcile their traditional linguistic roots with the demands of dominant national and global identities. To investigate this phenomenon, a systematic literature review was conducted following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) protocol. Data collection involved searching through three academic databases, specifically Science Direct and Scopus, utilizing a strategic keyword combination: "Kensiu language, identity conflict, Orang Asli, Indigenous people, cultural sustainability, and sociolinguistics." Following a rigorous screening process, a total of 46 primary studies (n=46) were identified and analyzed. The findings are categorized into three distinct themes: (1) Language, Sociolinguistics, and Communication, which highlights the shift toward dominant languages among youth; (2) Governance, Law, and Human Rights, focusing on the legal frameworks affecting indigenous autonomy; and (3) Socio-Cultural Identity, Heritage, and Community Wellbeing, which examines the psychological toll of navigating dual cultural worlds. The numerical results of this review demonstrate a concentrated but growing body of evidence regarding the vulnerability of the Kensiu community, with the 46 selected articles providing a robust basis for thematic mapping. The study concludes that identity conflict in Kensiu youth is a multi-dimensional issue resulting from a complex interplay of legal marginalization, linguistic displacement, and social pressure. Consequently, the research advocates for integrated policy reforms and community-driven initiatives that foster cultural pride and linguistic resilience to ensure the long-term survival of the Kensiu identity and heritage.