Chapter 8: Language Revitalization

Indonesia boasts an incredible wealth of linguistic and cultural diversity. The nation’s landscape is adorned with numerous ethnic groups, resulting in hundreds of languages across the archipelago, each of which has its own distinct dialects. These regional languages are commonly referred to as “bahasa daerah.” However, despite dedicated efforts towards language revitalization and documentation, many of these bahasa daerah are on the brink of losing their speakers. Even prominent regional languages have witnessed a decline in their usage, with younger generations showing less inclination towards using them or, in some cases, completely abandoning them.

In this lesson, we will delve into Indonesia’s linguistic diversity. We will also explore the compelling influence of Javanese in the vibrant dangdut koplo music scene and its profound impact on the younger generation’s renewed interest in their regional languages, thus contributing to the much-needed language revitalization efforts.

At the end of this lesson, the students are able to:

• explore the linguistic and cultural diversity of Indonesia,
• articulate a well-founded stance and provide robust support for their opinion,
• participate in a debate, effectively presenting their argument,
• examine and employ loan words, along with their connections to music and social media.