Broadening the Study of Ethnolinguistic Vitality: Interethnic Marriage and Language Shift in the Bugis Migrant Community in Bali

Abstract

The Bugis community in Bali's ability to maintain their ethnic identity and cultural heritage does not align with the condition of their language, which is undergoing a shift. This study aims to analyze the state of language vitality and the ethnolinguistic factors contributing to the language shift. The expansion of Ethnolinguistic Vitality Indicators (EVI) considers interethnic marriage a key factor in interrupting intergenerational language transmission. A qualitative approach using ethnographic methods was chosen to better understand sociocultural behavior and practices, including the dynamics of language use within the community. Data collection used non-participatory observation methods in Bugis communities across Buleleng, Badun, Jembrana, and Denpasar, while semi-structured interviews involved eight informants, including community leaders and representatives of the Bugis community. The results of EVI observations show that the Bugis language has lost its domain of use, even though they strongly identify themselves as the Bugis community through social and cultural practices; harmonious cross-cultural dynamics do not guarantee language maintenance due to fragmented community networks, low language prestige and the absence of institutional support; high levels of inter-ethnic marriages accelerate the cessation of intergenerational language transmission. The main findings show that inter-ethnic marriages play a role as a micro-structural factor, significantly shaping family language policies and accelerating language shift.

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