Practices and challenges of dual citizenship at an Indonesian border area

Abstract

The phenomenon of dual identity in border societies has become an increasingly critical issue in a global society that is becoming more cosmopolitan, and borders are becoming less relevant.This article investigates this issue through the lens of a case study of dual-identity citizens in Indonesia's Sebatik Islands, an island off the eastern coast of Borneo that is part of both Indonesia and Malaysia.The study employs qualitative methods and collected data through observation, interviews, and focus group discussions.The data was analyzed by an interpretive approach.The study's findings suggest that Sebatik citizens have a strong sense of dual identity, with their nationality and ethnicity deeply intertwined.They frequently seek privileges based on their citizenship status, such as access to basic necessities and employment opportunities driven by the communities' socioeconomic demands.This study fills an empirical gap in border communities' quandary in reconciling their dual identities and gaining access to resources and opportunities in an increasingly borderless world.

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