MAHUA LITERATURE IN THE DISCOURSE AND DIALECTIC OF NATIONAL LITERATURE

Description

The book explores the contested landscape of Malaysian national literature, with a focus on the role and contributions of Mahua (Malaysian-Chinese) literature. Since the introduction of the national literature concept in 1971—defined predominantly through Malay-language works grounded in Malay nationalism—debates have persisted over its inclusivity and relevance in a multicultural society.
The dissertation critiques the monolingual framework of national literature, which sidelines other literary traditions such as Mahua literature. Employing Foucault’s theories of discourse, Kekes’s pluralism, and Tansley’s ecological systems, it investigates how Mahua literature negotiates the biases embedded in national literary discourse while promoting a pluralistic vision. Through an analysis of the historical interactions between Malay and Mahua literatures, the study uncovers both tensions and areas of convergence.
Ultimately, the research highlights Mahua literature’s crucial role in reshaping Malaysian national literature into a more inclusive and dynamic entity.