Love knows no boundaries : Exploring the challenges in interracial marriages among Sarawakian women

Interracial marriages remain a taboo in Malaysian society, with couples facing distinct challenges compared to same-race couples, including discrimination, lack of support, and the adjustment to different cultural norms. This research aimed to explore the challenges faced by women in interracial marriages, their coping strategies, and their expectations for the future of such unions. A qualitative approach was employed, with interviews conducted with eight Sarawakian women. The data were analysed using Thematic Analysis. The challenges these women encountered included cultural differences, lack of marital support, religious differences, and the specific experiences of being a wife in an interracial marriage. Coping strategies identified included communication, distractions, and the integration of both spouses' cultures. These findings highlight the need for increased awareness of the challenges faced by women in interracial marriages, underscoring the importance of policymaking, enhanced counselling practices that account for cultural differences, and community-based programmes that address their needs.