Integrating Malay Local Wisdom in English Learning: Students’ Perception at State Junior High School 1 in Tanjung Pura Regency of North Sumatera Province

Integrating local wisdom into the English learning process is essential to preserve cultural identity and promote a more meaningful and relevant learning experience for students. This study aimed to explore students' perceptions on the importance of integrating local wisdom of the Malay community in English language learning. A qualitative approach was applied, which involved a survey of 27. The results showed that most students believe that the integration of local wisdom of the Malay community in English language learning is important. They recognized the potential benefits, including increased cultural understanding, better language learning motivation, and development of 21st century skills. However, the students also identified some challenges, such as the limited availability of learning resources that integrate the local wisdom of the Malay community and the need for better teacher training in this area. The findings of this study indicated that students were generally open to the integration of Malay local wisdom in English language learning, but there needs to be a more systematic and comprehensive effort to address the identified challenges. Implications for curriculum development, teacher professional development, and learning resource design to integrate local wisdom of the Malay community in English textbooks.