What is it about?
This study looks at how interpreters help people from different cultures and languages work together more effectively in companies that involve both Malaysian and Chinese employees. In many workplaces like these, misunderstandings can happen because people speak different languages and have different cultural ways of communicating. The research is based on real-life experiences of interpreters working inside companies. It shows that interpreters do much more than simply translate words. They help prevent conflicts by adjusting how messages are delivered, making them more respectful or easier to understand. For example, they may soften harsh language, explain cultural meanings, or clarify technical terms to avoid confusion. Interpreters also act as cultural bridges. They help both sides understand not just what is said, but what is meant. In tense situations, they may slow down conversations, suggest pauses, or rephrase statements to reduce conflict. Overall, the study shows that interpreters play a key role in improving communication, building trust, and helping teams work better together in multicultural business environments.
Featured Image
Why is it important?
This research is important because global business increasingly involves people from different cultures working together, and communication problems can reduce productivity and damage relationships. What makes this study unique is that it focuses on in-house interpreters working inside companies, rather than external or professional interpreters in formal settings. It highlights their dual role as both employees and communication mediators, which gives them deeper insight into workplace dynamics. The findings show that interpreters actively shape communication by managing tone, resolving misunderstandings, and adapting messages to cultural expectations. This challenges the traditional view of interpreters as neutral translators. The study has practical value for companies, as it shows that investing in skilled interpreters can improve teamwork, reduce conflict, and support smoother collaboration. It also highlights the need for better training that includes cultural understanding and conflict management, not just language skills. Overall, the research contributes to improving cross-cultural communication practices in international business.
Perspectives
From my perspective, this study highlights something that is often overlooked in organizations: communication is not just about language, but about meaning, culture, and relationships. Working on this research made me realize how much responsibility interpreters carry. They are not just translating words, but constantly making decisions that can influence emotions, trust, and even business outcomes. In many situations, they must balance accuracy with sensitivity, which is not always easy. I was particularly struck by how interpreters act as silent problem-solvers. They step in to prevent misunderstandings, soften conflicts, and maintain harmony, often without recognition. Their role is both complex and critical, especially in multicultural environments like Sino-Malaysian corporations. This study also made me reflect on how organizations often underestimate the importance of cultural understanding. Language skills alone are not enough. Companies need to recognize interpreters as strategic contributors to communication and collaboration. Ultimately, I believe this research helps bring greater attention to the human side of global business communication and the vital role interpreters play in making it work.
Professor. Dr. Sanmugam Annamalah
SEGi University & Colleges
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Examining cultural and linguistic mediation: the role of In-house interpreters in mitigating communication friction in Sino-Malaysian corporations, Cogent Social Sciences, March 2026, Taylor & Francis,
DOI: 10.1080/23311886.2026.2632988.
You can read the full text:
Contributors
The following have contributed to this page
