Perceptions of Malaysian Generations Y And Z on the Use of Twitter Language

This study investigates the role of code mixing in social media communication, specifically on Twitter, among Generations Y and Z in Malaysia. With the increasing prevalence of code mixing, it is essential to understand its implications for identity expression and interpersonal connections. Employing a qualitative research design, the study includes participants aged 27 to 42 from Generation Y and 11 to 26 from Generation Z, who shared their perspectives through online interviews. The research employs Hoffmann’s Theory (1991) as a framework to explore the reasons behind code mixing in communication. Findings reveal that both generations perceive code mixing as a valuable tool for enhancing communication effectiveness, bridging language barriers, and facilitating smoother interactions. Participants highlighted that code mixing helps in expressing emotions and navigating their multicultural society. However, the study also identifies potential drawbacks, including misunderstandings and grammatical inconsistencies. Overall, this research contributes to the understanding of code mixing in contemporary Malaysian communication, reflecting the interplay of language, culture, and identity. The insights gained can inform future studies and help multilingual speakers recognize the varying perceptions of code mixing across generations.