language change and variation; language policy; Malaysia; Southeast Asia; English language; lingua franca; general linguistics; Anglophone studies

Malaysia has one of the densest concentrations of languages in the world, with more than one hundred languages spoken in the country. The present paper aims to provide a modest introduction into the linguistic complexity of the area, outlining not only the status of the dominant languages, including English, but also focusing on the status of minority language communities, especially those facing the threat of extinction. In doing so, account is taken of Malaysia?s language regulations, while stressing the importance of language diversity. The paper attempts to contribute to the discussion regarding the future of languages and the role of the English language as a lingua franca. Thus, it could be viewed both as a contribution to general linguistics and to Anglophone studies.