Mufti Riyani, Ferani Mulianingsih, Aulia Rahman

A Critical Discourse Analysis of the Construction of Acehnese-Chinese Ethnic Identity in Socio-Political Dynamics

Introduction

A critical discourse analysis of the construction of acehnese-chinese ethnic identity in socio-political dynamics. Explores Acehnese-Chinese ethnic identity construction through digital discourse on Facebook, analyzing prejudice and integration using CDA. Reveals dualistic representations and highlights critical media literacy's role in Aceh's socio-political dynamics.

Abstract

This study explores how ethnic identities of Acehnese and Chinese communities are constructed through digital discourse, focusing on narratives of prejudice and integration as expressed on Facebook. Using Fairclough’s Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) as the main framework, complemented by Van Dijk’s socio-cognitive approach and Foucault’s discourse-power relationship, this study examines how language, ideology, and social memory shape interethnic representations. Data were collected from public Facebook posts between January and September 2024 using keywords such as “Aceh and Chinese” and “Chinese and Aceh,” and supported by interviews with selected users. The findings reveal a pattern of dualistic representation: historical tensions and symbolic prejudices persist, while efforts towards coexistence and shared identity also emerge. The dominant narratives often come from the Acehnese community, with the Chinese group showing a more cautious approach in digital expression. Labeling, metaphor, polarization, and references to historical trauma and moments of integration are key linguistic strategies identified in the discourse. Social media platforms like Facebook play a paradoxical role—both reinforcing ethnic bias through algorithmic echo chambers and enabling counter-narratives that foster intercultural understanding. Identity construction is shaped by both internal factors (such as education and ideology) and external factors (such as collective memory, interethnic experiences, and digital infrastructure). This study highlights the importance of critical media literacy in multicultural societies, especially in post-conflict areas like Aceh. It suggests the use of inclusive digital spaces and educational interventions that promote reflective historical awareness, reduce prejudice, and support cultural integration in online and offline environments.

Review

This study promises a timely and critically important examination of Acehnese-Chinese ethnic identity construction within the unique socio-political landscape of Aceh, amplified through digital discourse. The theoretical foundation is notably robust, effectively integrating Fairclough’s Critical Discourse Analysis with Van Dijk’s socio-cognitive approach and Foucault’s discourse-power relationship. This multi-layered methodological framework suggests a sophisticated analysis capable of dissecting the intricate interplay between language, ideology, social memory, and power dynamics in shaping interethnic representations. The focus on Facebook as a site for data collection, specifically analyzing narratives of prejudice and integration, is highly relevant given the platform's pervasive influence on public opinion and identity formation in contemporary societies, particularly in a post-conflict region. The abstract clearly outlines compelling findings, revealing a nuanced pattern of dualistic representation encompassing both historical tensions and symbolic prejudices alongside emergent efforts towards coexistence. The identification of key linguistic strategies—labeling, metaphor, polarization, and references to historical trauma and moments of integration—offers concrete insights into how these dynamics manifest in digital discourse. Furthermore, the observation of differing approaches to digital expression between the Acehnese and Chinese communities adds valuable depth to the analysis. The paradoxical role of social media, both reinforcing ethnic bias and enabling counter-narratives, is a critical insight with broader implications for digital sociology. The study's consideration of both internal and external factors influencing identity construction, culminating in practical recommendations for critical media literacy and inclusive digital spaces, underscores its potential for real-world impact. While the study's ambitions are commendable, certain aspects could benefit from further elaboration to enhance its impact and clarity. A more detailed explanation of how the three theoretical frameworks are precisely integrated and operationalized in the analysis would be beneficial, ensuring that each framework contributes distinctly to the findings beyond simply being mentioned. Given the reliance on Facebook data and interviews, a discussion of the ethical considerations, particularly concerning user privacy and consent for social media posts and interview participants, is essential for a robust academic publication. Additionally, while "post-conflict" is mentioned, the abstract could more explicitly articulate how the specific historical context of Aceh uniquely shapes these identified discourse patterns, rather than treating it as a general backdrop. Further clarity on the selection criteria for "selected users" for interviews and how their input is integrated with the discourse analysis would also strengthen the methodological rigor.

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