Multiethnic Audiences Interpretation of National Identity in Malaysia through Alternative Film of Nasi Lemak 2.0

Abstract

This research examines the construction of national identity among young multiethnic audience through their reception of ethnic relation in Nasi Lemak 2.0. Nasi Lemak 2.0 film have difference in terms of language that become on this film root, and that film use Nasi Lemak as a symbolism to symbolize of multi-ethnic in Malaysia. Malaysia is a multi-ethnic nation that forms their respective ethnic identity. This study outlined several research questions (1) How does society conceive national identity (2) What is the concept of national identity represented through Nasi Lemak 2.0. Drawing on Stuart Hall’s (1997) representation theory, this study sought to answer its research question. It uses a focus group discussion involving 56 informant who have watched the film. Using Braun Clarke (2006)-Thematic Analysis, it is found that Nasi Lemak 2.0 served theme a national cultural. National Culture’ determined by state ideology which shaped national identity. This study found that national culture determined through government media and ideology. Film is a tools used to deliver orders message to audience. This study also found that young Malaysian ethnic and national identity to be fluid.