New Bill Prioritizes Regional Languages as National Identity

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian government is moving to elevate regional languages from mere local dialects to a primary pillar of national security. Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, has announced that the Draft of Regional Language Bill (RUU Bahasa Daerah) has become a top priority for the government, framing the preservation of linguistic diversity as a critical defense of the nation's cultural identity.

During a meeting with the Regional Representative Council (DPD) in Jakarta on Tuesday, March 7, 2026, Minister Fadli Zon argued that the state must transition from passive preservation to active revitalization.

"Regional language is not just a communication tool, it is the foundation of cultural resilience and national identity. Therefore, the state must be present to ensure that regional languages are not only protected but also continuously used, developed, utilized, and passed down through generations," said the Minister, as quoted by Antara.

He emphasized that this push will involve integrating local languages into the digital sphere and educational systems to engage younger generations.

The legislative push has garnered significant support and specific demands from regional leaders who see their heritage at risk. David Harold Warumi, representing Papua, highlighted the urgent need for institutional backing, requesting additional language centers in the easternmost territory to address the aspirations of indigenous communities.

He noted that regional languages are the identity and heritage of the nation that must be guarded and preserved. Echoing this sentiment, DPD Chairperson, Filep Wamafma, urged for the bill's substance to be strengthened to ensure it truly meets local needs on the ground.

To ensure the policy is effective, the Ministry is advocating for data-driven planning through the Regional Cultural Strategy Documents (PPKD). Minister Fadli Zon clarified that these are not merely bureaucratic hurdles, but essential tools for factual decision-making.

"From there, we can ensure that the policies taken truly answer the community's needs," he added.

Supporting this strategic roadmap, Jambi representative, Abu Bakar Jamalia, expressed readiness to collaborate on socializing these cultural programs. The initiative signals a shift in how Indonesia views its 700+ local languages, not as relics of the past, but as essential assets that require modern institutional support and legislative protection to survive in a globalized era. ***