Language and nationalism

Language and nationalism

As the 50th anniversary of Indonesia's independence
approaches, increased efforts are being made by the government to
replace foreign-language terms with Indonesian ones in
residential areas, shopping centers, hotels and other public
places. This has already been done in the areas of Jakarta,
Bogor, Tangerang and Bekasi (Jabotabek).

While the proliferation of foreign terms may be regarded as a
consequence of globalization, it is also reflects an erosion of
pride in our own language. In a more extreme sense it may even be
said that the use of foreign terms reflects a waning of our
nationalist spirit.

The improper verbal use of the Indonesian language in daily
relationships can perhaps be tolerated to prevent communication
from becoming stuffy. However, the proper formal use of the
Indonesian language in writing must be preserved.

-- Jayakarta, Jakarta