The Threat of Extinction of Lampung Regional Language, Indonesia: A Phenomenological View

Abstract

This research addresses the issue of the threat of extinction of the Lampung regional language through phenomenological and hermeneutic approaches by Paul Ricoeur. The main findings involve dramatic changes in the use of the Lampung language, indicated by a decreasing number of speakers and a dwindling number of young people mastering it. Additionally, the distribution of Lampung language speakers is fragmented across many regions amidst the influence of languages from outside Lampung. The global cultural influence on the younger generation also contributes to the decline in the use of the Lampung language. Currently, the Lampung language tends to be limited to traditional ritual events, depicting a trend of its diminishing functionality in daily life. Nevertheless, these findings are balanced by initiatives to preserve and revitalize the Lampung language through local content and community participation. The conclusion of this research highlights the importance of efforts to support the sustainability of the Lampung language, with recommendations to continue promoting local initiatives and strengthening community involvement in language preservation.