Linguistic Landscapes in South-East Asia: The Politics of Language and Public Signage

This edited volume explores the politics of language and the semiotic construction of space in multilingual and multi-ethnic Asian countries, highlighting the implications for language maintenance, cultural revitalization, identity construction, and socioeconomic mobility. It examines how globalization, minority languages, and the use of Asian languages shape the linguistic landscape and discusses the preservation and expression of Asian heritage languages and cultures.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 218 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Spanning a diverse range of multilingual and multi-ethnic Asian countries, including Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and China, this edited volume delves into the intricate politics of language and the semiotic construction of space. The chapters explore how individuals and collectivities utilize semiotic resources in various spaces, such as schools, airports, streets, shops, and online platforms, to reinforce or challenge existing social structures, with profound implications for language maintenance, cultural revitalization, the construction of ethnolinguistic and national identities, and socioeconomic mobility.

Part I examines the interplay between globalization and its accompanying forces, such as the significance of English in socioeconomic mobility, and local Asian cultures and languages. It explores how globalization interacts with and influences the preservation and revitalization of minority languages, shedding light on the role of linguistic landscapes in both their minorization and revitalization processes.

Part II delves into the dynamics of minority languages, demographically and socio-politically established within the respective countries. It explores how linguistic landscapes play a crucial role in both their marginalization and revitalization, highlighting the strategies employed by individuals and communities to maintain and promote their heritage languages.

Part III examines how linguistic landscapes are utilized as sites for constructing identities and pursuing socioeconomic, political, and cultural goals. It explores how English, as a global language, is present and prominent in the linguistic landscapes of these countries, alongside the use of Asian languages. This analysis sheds light on how Asian heritage languages and cultures are preserved and expressed in times of political unrest or economic development, contributing to the rich tapestry of linguistic diversity in Asia.

This captivating exploration of linguistic landscapes in Asia offers valuable insights to researchers, students, and policy makers in the fields of sociolinguistics and applied linguistics across the globe. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the complex dynamics that shape language use and identity formation in this region, highlighting the importance of preserving and promoting linguistic diversity for the enrichment of society as a whole.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367764593