Heritage preservation and sociocultural adaptation among South Asian immigrants in Hong Kong: a perspective through dynamic family language policy

Through the lens of family language policy (FLP), this qualitative study examines how South Asian immigrant families in Hong Kong navigate the dual imperatives of preserving their cultural and linguistic heritage while adapting to the sociocultural demands of the host society. Drawing on semi-structured individual interviews and recordings of their daily conversations, the findings reveal that FLP is a dynamic and adaptive framework that enables families to navigate the tensions between heritage and integration. The families actively preserve their cultural identities and maintain connections to their heritage through FLP. Simultaneously, their strategic acquisition of English and Chinese facilitates sociocultural adaptation and fosters integration into Hong Kong's multicultural society. In this process, the child agency emerges as a critical factor in shaping their families’ FLP and bridging the gap between heritage and adaptation. The support provided by non-governmental organisations also plays an indispensable role in mediating the challenges of adaptation by offering resources and opportunities that enhance the effectiveness of FLP. Insights into the complexities of multicultural integration among immigrant families are discussed.