Exploring the Current State of Indigenous Languages
With Aditya Bayu Perdana
- In your view, what are the biggest opportunities and threats facing Indigenous Languages in today’s digital world?
The most significant opportunity might arise from the emergence of language communities, activists, and grassroots users. The biggest threat could come from ignorance and indifference among higher levels, especially those controlling technology development and deployment. The government’s lack of practical strategies is also unhelpful and even counterproductive. - How can digital tools—such as social media, mobile apps, or AI—be effectively used to preserve and promote Indigenous Languages?
Social media is definitely helpful for increasing the digital footprint of our Indigenous languages. In my view, this digital footprint is a problem that needs to be taken more seriously before we can expect AI to help effectively. This is because AI responses rely heavily on data and the language's digital footprint. Currently, we can see that many Indigenous languages have limited or no digital footprint (for example, when the language is still mainly oral and lacks written materials), and in such cases, the answers provided by AI based on this digital footprint will likely be less than ideal. - What role should governments, educational institutions, or international organizations play in supporting Indigenous language communities?
Each of the organizations mentioned above can create regulations that promote language inclusivity, such as requiring translation and transliteration in specific situations. However, to prevent these from being just superficial rules, it is important to follow up with a clear implementation plan. Unfortunately, this step is often skipped. These organizations should think about practical ways to put these regulations into practice and consult with experts and creative professionals like translators, designers, and pop artists, instead of relying solely on formal rules. - Based on your experience, what are the most successful local or global initiatives that have helped revitalize Indigenous Languages?
In my experience, designing practical items like fonts, keyboards, traditional scripts, reading materials, or script-themed works. - What concrete steps can younger generations take to keep their Indigenous language alive—especially in increasingly digital and globalized societies?
Use it whenever you get the chance. It’s as easy as that. Type it, write it, and say it.
