Dimensions of the Malayness Construct: Scale Development and Empirical Analysis

The main purpose of this paper is to develop a scale -- the Malayness Scale -- to measure ethnic orientation among Malays in Malaysia. Measurement of ethnic subculture must be rooted in a construct that could capture the multi-dimensionality of ethnic orientation since past research points to the weaknesses in using a dichotomous measure of ethnic identity. The dimensions that capture Malayness included in developing the scale are values that are specific to the Malay culture, language, social interactions, and self-identification. Data were collected from adult respondents in Peninsular Malaysia. A stratified quota sampling method was used to ensure a diverse sample of Malays in respect to socio-economic background, gender, and age. This study follows the standard procedures for scale development. Each dimension included in this study for measuring the Malayness construct was tested for its psychometric properties and found to be valid and reliable measures. Implications of the study, limitations and directions for future research are discussed and suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR