On February 27, 2025, the Indonesian Minister of Education and Culture, Abdul Mu'ti, emphasized the significance of mother tongue education during the celebration of the 25th International Mother Language Day at SMPN 1 Turi, Yogyakarta. He articulated the role of mother tongues, or local languages, as foundational to communication and comprehension of the surrounding environment.
"Bahasa Ibu adalah bahasa yang pertama kali dipelajari seseorang sejak kecil secara alamiah dan menjadi dasar sarana komunikasi serta pemahaman terhadap lingkungannya," Mu'ti noted, underlining how language acquisition starts from infancy and is pivotal for personal and cultural identity.
During the event, Mu'ti expressed admiration for the students who demonstrated fluency in the Javanese language, showcasing the successful integration of local languages within educational settings. This initiative aligns with the broader objectives of nurturing cultural heritage and strengthens the country's linguistic diversity.
Mu'ti stated, "SAIH merupakan bagian dari Sosialisasi Gerakan 7 Kebiasaan Anak Indonesia Hebat yang digulirkan oleh Kemendikdasmen," referring to the 'Seven Habits of Excellent Indonesian Children' movement aimed at enhancing student engagement through local language instruction.
The Minister advocated for several strategies to preserve and promote local languages. He encouraged their incorporation as local content within educational curricula, which would not only enrich academic learning but also instill pride among students for their linguistic heritage. "Menggunakan bahasa daerah sebagai muatan lokal pembelajaran," Mu'ti urged, highlighting the integration of regional languages as pedagogical tools.
He also emphasized the importance of using local languages for daily interactions among students. This practical application is significant for fostering fluency and ensuring these languages thrive beyond the classroom. Mu’ti pointed out, "Gunakan bahasa daerah dalam interaksi kehidupan sehari hari atau gunakan bahasa Indonesia jika bahasa asing telah memiliki padanan kata dalam bahasa Indonesia," reinforcing the need for sustainability through usage.
Finally, Mu'ti proposed utilizing local languages as mediums of art and science, thereby operationalizing their relevance across multiple disciplines. This approach not only preserves the languages but also expands their utility within modern educational frameworks.
Such initiatives highlight Indonesia's dedication to nurturing its linguistic and cultural richness. They aim to create environments where local languages are not just preserved but celebrated as integral components of Indonesia's vibrant identity.