Language and Education Policy: Navigating the Tensions Between National Identity and Regional Diversity

Abstract

This paper examines the tensions between national identity and regional linguistic diversity in Indonesia’s education policy. As a multi-ethnic and multi-lingual nation, Indonesia faces significant challenges in balancing the promotion of the national language, Bahasa Indonesia, with the preservation of local languages and cultural identities. The study explores how education policies, particularly those related to language instruction, navigate these tensions. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research analyzes national and regional language policies, interviews with educators, and case studies of language use in schools across various provinces. Findings indicate that while Bahasa Indonesia serves as a unifying force, the dominance of the national language often marginalizes local languages, leading to the erosion of cultural identity and a loss of linguistic diversity. The paper argues for a more inclusive approach that integrates regional languages into the curriculum while maintaining the primacy of the national language. It concludes by recommending policy adjustments that promote multilingual education, ensuring both national unity and the preservation of Indonesia’s rich linguistic heritage.