NEGOSIASI IDENTITAS DALAM KOMUNIKASI ANTARBUDAYA PADA AKTIVITAS JUAL BELI ANTARA WARGA NEGARA INDONESIA DAN WARGA NEGARA MALAYSIA DI DAERAH PERBATASAN (Studi Etnografi Komunikasi di Pulau Sebatik Kalimantan Utara)

Cross-border trading activities on Sebatik Island are not only about economic aspects but also serve as a dynamic arena for intercultural communication. These trading interactions often give rise to differences in language, economic symbols, and communication styles. These differences present both challenges and opportunities for identity negotiation. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine how identity negotiation occurs in intercultural communication during trading activities between Indonesian and Malaysian citizens in the border region.
This study uses Identity Negotiation Theory (INT) by Stella Ting-Toomey and Communication Accommodation Theory (CAT) by Howard Giles as the basis for analysis. These two theories complement each other. INT explains how individuals form and negotiate their identities through symbolic communication, cross-cultural adaptation, and positive responses. CAT, on the other hand, explains the communication strategies used to adapt to or maintain culture. CAT complements this by explaining the communication strategies used to realize identity negotiation, namely convergence (adaptation of language, accent, and terminology) and divergence (maintaining accent or terminology to emphasize identity).
This study uses a descriptive qualitative research method with a communication ethnography approach. Research data was collected through participant observation, interviews with cross-border traders and buyers, and documentation. Data analysis was conducted using the Miles and Huberman model, which includes data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing.
The results indicate that the continuity of identity negotiation on Sebatik Island is realized through the use of a mixed Malay-Indonesian language, the adaptation of economic symbols, positive responses in interactions, and the practice of culturally conscious communication (mindful communication). Communication accommodation strategies, such as convergence and divergence, are important mechanisms for ensuring smooth transactions and maintaining cultural identity. Thus, cross-border trading activities on Sebatik Island constitute a social space where identity is actively and harmoniously negotiated.