A matter of language

A matter of language

From Forum Keadilan

M.A.W. Brouwer once said he had difficulty translating foreign terminology into Indonesian, because of the insufficient vocabulary of the Indonesian language. Condominium, villa, real estate, are examples.

Also we have to change the terms non-pribumi (citizens of foreign descent) and pribumi (indigenous). It is regrettable that the ethnic Chinese have not been regarded as part and parcel of the Indonesian culture, despite the country's slogan "Unity in Diversity". They are not considered one of the many ethnic groups that make up the Indonesian nation. Aren't we committed to the youth pledge of "one nation?"

It is undeniable that people of Chinese descent are regarded as second class in this country. This is not fair. They have done a lot for Indonesia, particularly in the business sector. We are also aware of the heterogeneity of this nation with the existence of many ethnic groups with their respective cultures and traditions.

For unity's sake, it is time we found a better term to identify different Indonesian ethnic groups, namely warga budaya (to be contracted wardaya). Then we would only have to add the ethnic origins after the word wardaya like wardaya Batak, wardaya Jawa, wardaya Cina, wardaya Padang etc. This idea has advantages and disadvantages, but it is important to stick to our commitment of "one nation" and to comply with language values. There is no need to link it to politics. Any letters concerning this matter can be sent direct to me at the following address: Jl. Sol Putih 70, Medan 20154, Sumatra Utara.

RINALDI SIMAMORA

Medan, North Sumatra