Indonesian Language Socialization for Tourism Practitioners Showcases Potential for Language Diplomacy

Strategic Insights -

In a concerted effort to promote the Indonesian language in the tourism sector, the Ministry of Education and Culture implemented an Indonesian Language Socialization program for tourism practitioners at the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. The program, which was attended by 70 tourism stakeholders, including guides, hotel and restaurant managers, and travel agents, aimed to improve their communication skills with international tourists. The participants received practical tools, including the Indonesian Language Book for Foreign Speakers (BIPA) and guidebooks, to introduce the Indonesian language in daily interactions at tourist destinations.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Indonesian Language Socialization program for tourism practitioners was implemented by the Ministry of Education and Culture at the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, with the aim of promoting the Indonesian language in the tourism sector.
  • The program, which was attended by 70 tourism stakeholders, provided practical tools such as the Indonesian Language Book for Foreign Speakers (BIPA) and guidebooks to introduce the Indonesian language in daily interactions with international tourists.
  • The BIPA pocket book, which was introduced as a new breakthrough and innovation, combines Indonesian language strengthening in the tourism sector in Indonesia and has proven effective in introducing basic Indonesian language to foreign tourists.
  • Indonesian is currently studied in 57 countries, supported by 772 BIPA teaching institutions worldwide, and has been designated an official language by the UNESCO General Assembly since 2023.
  • The Indonesian government's official speech at the UNESCO General Assembly will be in Indonesian for the first time, serving as an important symbol of the country's linguistic sovereignty on the international stage.
  • Regional languages contain historical, cultural, and traditional values that are the noble values of the nation, and preserving regional languages is just as important as bringing Indonesian to the world stage.
  • Tourism operators play a dual role as both economic drivers and agents of language diplomacy, able to introduce the Indonesian language to foreign tourists and thus become "foreign exchange heroes".
  • Public spaces and tourism products are encouraged to prioritize the use of Indonesian as a tangible form of strengthening national identity.
  • The Indonesian Language Teachers and Activists Association for Foreign Speakers (APPBIPA) believes that the program could serve as a national model, with tourism practitioners at the forefront of interactions with foreign tourists.
  • The Ministry of Education and Culture emphasized that language diplomacy is not limited to international forums but can also develop from simple conversations between tourism operators and foreign tourists.

Statistics:

  • 70 tourism stakeholders attended the Indonesian Language Socialization program.
  • 772 BIPA teaching institutions worldwide support the teaching of Indonesian language.
  • Indonesian is currently studied in 57 countries.
  • The UNESCO General Assembly designated Indonesian as an official language since 2023.
  • 70% of participants felt more confident in introducing Indonesian after receiving the training.

Sources:

  • Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, Government of Indonesia
  • Indonesian Language Teachers and Activists Association for Foreign Speakers (APPBIPA)
  • UNESCO General Assembly
  • Probolinggo, September 6, 2023