ABSTRACT

This chapter uses a sociolinguistic lens to examine language change and diversity in contemporary Indonesia. Using examples from conversations, Indonesian television, politicians’ speeches, and political campaign signs, I note that ideas about Indonesian, Indonesian-ness, and ethnicity have dramatically changed. In interpreting this change, I argue that the ongoing commodification of languages and the positive revaluing of varieties of regional languages have contributed to this process. The commodification of languages has also changed the way language is thought of and used. For example, language mixing is now an accepted practice and some ethnic languages have co-equal status with Indonesian. The circulation of ethnic languages within the mass media has also created new forms of sociability among Indonesians. For example, familiarity with other ethnic groups’ languages enables many Indonesians to use bits of these languages in everyday conversations to appear more convivial, to seek votes in political contests, and so on.