Simolol Language Maintenance Ethnographic Study in Simeulue Regency, Aceh Province

Abstract

Simolol language is one of the regional languages ​​that has important historical and cultural value for the Simeulue community, Aceh Province. However, its existence is now threatened by the dominance of the Indonesian language and the influence of globalization. This study aims to examine the level of preservation of the Simolol language and various preservation efforts made by the community. The approach used is a mixed method with a multilingual ethnographic framework, combining qualitative and quantitative data. Data were obtained through interviews, participatory observation, documentation, and open questionnaires with 60 respondents from three age groups: teenagers, adults, and parents. The results of the study showed that the highest level of language preservation was in the elderly group (70%), followed by adults (61.3%), and teenagers (38.15%). The family sphere is the main place where Simolol language is used, with the percentage of use reaching 100% in parents, 82% in adults, and 74% in teenagers. In contrast, the educational sphere shows very low use, especially in teenagers (5%). Oral traditions such as nanga-nanga (lullaby songs) and inafi (folk stories) still play an important role in language transmission between generations. In addition, the Simolol language is still used in traditional, religious, and social activities by the elderly and adults. In conclusion, although the Simolol language still survives among the older generation, serious challenges arise in language regeneration among teenagers. Therefore, a cross-generational preservation strategy and integration of cultural values ​​in education are needed to maintain the sustainability of the Simolol language.