On the Dynamics of Glocalisation and Minority Language Conservation in Contemporary Indonesia

Abstract

This paper discusses the dynamics of glocalisation in relation to minority language conservation issues in an Indonesian context, focussing on cases in eastern Indonesia. Two inter-related types of glocalisation are distinguished (top-down and bottom-up). It is argued that from the glocal perspective, successful efforts in language conservation and advocacy must be interdisciplinary in nature, involving long-term programmes with all stakeholders. They should target the speech communities collectively and individually, empowering them as human beings through different kinds of leadership literacy, and strengthening their economic, socio-cultural and linguistic capitals. Such efforts are highly challenging given that minority groups in the increasingly competitive and glocalised modern world are weak and disadvantaged in all respects, even at the most local level.