Mother languages represent a cultural heritage that plays a vital role in shaping the identity of individuals and communities. However, amidst the strong currents of globalization, the use of mother languages in various regions faces significant challenges. This phenomenon will be the focus of the 114th Selasa Legen Discussion Forum, which will be held by Universitas Negeri Semarang (UNNES) on Monday evening, February 17, 2025.
Titled “Mother Language, How Are You?”, the discussion forum, which will take place at Kampung Budaya FBS UNNES, will feature the Head of the Central Java Province Language Center, Dr. Syarifuddin, and Prof. Dr. Yusro Edy Nugroho, a Javanese Literature academic from the Faculty of Languages and Arts at UNNES. The event, moderated by Nadia Ardiwinata, a presenter at Radio Idola, aims to review the importance of collective efforts in preserving mother languages.
Dr. Dhoni Zustiyantoro from the Selasa Legen UNNES Event Division emphasized that decreasing the number of local language speakers is an increasingly concerning issue. “Mother language is identity. If regional languages are used less and less, then we lose a part of our culture,” he stated.
According to him, urbanization, modernization, and the advancement of information technology are primary factors influencing the shift away from using mother languages. Global languages such as English and the national language are becoming increasingly dominant in daily communication. “In many urban families, children are more fluent in Indonesian or even English than in their local language,” Dhoni stated.
UNESCO designates February 21 as International Mother Language Day to remind people of the importance of linguistic diversity and preservation efforts. Indonesia boasts over 700 regional languages, and safeguarding mother tongues is an increasingly significant challenge. Academics, the government, cultural communities, and the wider society are expected to participate actively in regional language revitalization initiatives.
This discussion forum will also address various ideas for ensuring the continuity of mother languages. Prof. Dr. Yusro Edy Nugroho believes that key priorities are strengthening education based on regional languages and leveraging technology in mother language learning. “Making regional languages more relevant in the digital age can be a crucial strategy. Educational content based on regional languages needs to be increased so that the younger generation remains interested,” he stated.
The Head of the Central Java Province Language Center, Dr. Syarifuddin, added that local government policies also play a role in preserving mother languages. “Mandatory local language programs in schools, speech or writing competitions in local languages, and the utilization of social media to promote mother languages can be concrete steps,” he stated.
This discussion forum is open to the public and is expected to garner significant enthusiasm from various groups. The event, scheduled from 19.30 to 22.00 WIB, is hoped to serve as a momentum to raise awareness about the importance of mother languages and the efforts to preserve them.
