PRESERVING REGIONAL LANGUAGES AS THE DIGITAL IDENTITY OF THE YOUNGER GENERATION
Keywords:
Regional Language, Young Generation, Digital Identity, Social Media, Local PrideAbstract
The phenomenon of declining use of regional languages among the younger generation, especially Gen Z and Gen Alpha, raises serious concerns about the sustainability of the nation's linguistic identity. This study aims to analyze the causes of the decline in the use of regional languages, examine the role of social media as a new space for the expression of digital identity, and formulate creative strategies to package regional languages to remain relevant in the digital era. The main problem examined is the "digital paradox", where technology is often accused of being a culture killer, but on the other hand has revitalization potential through Personal Branding. Using a qualitative method with a library research approach, this study found that the preservation of regional languages in the digital era no longer relies on curriculum coercion, but on Local Pride. Social media has succeeded in shifting the stigma of regional languages from "old-fashioned" to aesthetic digital assets that have selling points (niche markets). It is concluded that regional languages now function as "identity algorithms" that distinguish content creators in the midst of globalization, with new preservation mechanisms through code switching and creative content such as memes and short videos
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Copyright (c) 2026 Ahmad Dimyati Ridwan, Muhamad Faiz Al Fauzi, Sally Aisah Amini, Irma Pebriawati, Annisa Fitri, Anisa Rahmawati (Author)
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