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