CARING AND FAMILY

Abstract

This article explores marriage migration within a ‘Malay’ ethnic group – the Cocos Malay population on Home Island of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands. Marriage is considered important because it produces legitimate children and gives achieved status. Marriage migrants and their Home Island spouses portray their betrothal as jodoh – a good match made by the extended family. Marriage is also associated with the role of family, as couples often live with or close to one of the spouse's parents or relatives and getting the right match centres on family and caring for family members.