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Documenting Chetty Creole: Preserving the Voice of a Minority Language

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The Chetty, or Chetti Melaka, are a unique community of South Indian descent who settled primarily in Malacca, Malaysia, in the 16th century. Known as the "Indian Peranakans," they have blended many Malay and Chinese cultural elements into their lives while preserving their Hindu faith and heritage. Losing this heritage would be a significant loss, affecting not only the wider Malaysian society but also this small community in Malacca. The primary language spoken is Chetty Creole, considered a minority language due to the community's increasing migration from the settlement. The purpose of documenting this portion is to shed light on the limited research available on the Chetty community's language and culture. With the community facing ongoing challenges, including migration and diminishing numbers, there is a pressing concern that this language may be on the brink of extinction.Chetty Creole represents a valuable legacy and heritage left by early Indian traders, enriching Malaysian history.
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