KBRN, Serang: The Indonesian government is actively working to preserve regional languages through mapping, conservation, and registration efforts. Its goal is to identify and protect endangered languages.

Banten Provincial Language Agency Head Asep Juanda explained that the government has developed various methods to preserve regional languages. One initial step is mapping these languages.

"This is crucial for understanding the number and distribution of languages still used within communities. By 2019, mapping revealed that Indonesia had 718 regional languages spread across various regions. However, this number may change as data continues to be updated," Asep said on Friday, February 21, 2025, reported by rri.co.id.

In addition to mapping, the government also engaged in language conservation through various preservation programs, including vitality assessments and documentation. This helped determine the most effective preservation strategies for each language.

"We not only document languages but also assess their vitality—whether they are still widely used or are in decline," said Asep.

Language registration was another key part of this effort. The government strived to officially register regional languages in the national system to ensure they received greater attention in educational and cultural policies.

"Every language mapped is then registered in a national database, making it part of the government's policy on protecting regional languages," Asep added.

Revitalization efforts are also being carried out through various programs, such as the Mother Language Bud Festival (FTBI), which encourage children and teenagers to use their regional languages actively.

"We are not only documenting the language but also striving to revitalize it through speech competitions, short story writing, and various other activities," Asep said.

He emphasized that preserving regional languages is the government's responsibility and that of the wider community.

"If we don't start now, regional languages will continue to decline. Let's protect and use our mother tongues to keep them alive amid the times," Asep concluded. ***