Making Endangered Languages Prestigious: The West Papuan Locals Hedging Against the Grip of Modernity
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17507/tpls.1605.11Keywords:
West Papua, endangered languages, prestige, modernity, language maintenanceAbstract
Against a backdrop of linguistic assimilation, with the dominance of the Indonesian (Papuan Malay) language, this study describes how prestige dynamics influence community engagement in language revitalization efforts, a case study of the West Papuan local language in Kaimana Regency, Indonesia. Using a qualitative and participatory approach, including semi-structured interviews, participant observation, and sociolinguistic surveys, the findings reveal a paradox: while indigenous languages are deeply embedded in cultural identity and traditional ritual, they are often perceived as lacking economic and social utility in modern society. However, this study documents emerging counter-narratives in which indigenous communities are strategically reconfiguring the prestige of their languages to assert cultural identity and reclaim socio-political agency. These efforts include integrating indigenous languages into formal education, leveraging digital media for cultural expression, and revitalizing linguistic domains through grassroots initiatives. This study demonstrates that effective language revitalization requires a nuanced conceptualization of prestige and making a network between stakeholders as both a sociocultural construct and an instrument of power negotiation, thereby advancing sociolinguistic discourse on indigenous language maintenance.
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