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