International Journal of Social Service and Research
Vol. 6 No. 5 (2026): International Journal of Social Service and Research

The Existence of Regional Languages in the Age of Modernization

Dewi Rahayu (Universitas Negeri Makassar)
Ambo Intan (Universitas Negeri Makassar)
Sudirman Sudirman (Universitas Negeri Makassar)



Article Info

Publish Date
26 May 2026

Abstract

The rapid pace of modernization and globalization has placed regional languages in a vulnerable position, at risk of being marginalized. This research aims to analyze the existence of regional languages amid the dominance of the national language and foreign languages, as well as to identify the factors causing a decline in the frequency of regional language use in everyday communication. Using a descriptive qualitative research method with a literature review and sociolinguistic observation approach, this study found that language shift occurs significantly, particularly in urban areas. The main factors influencing this phenomenon include the perception of prestige associated with foreign languages, population migration (urbanization), and the lack of language transmission from parents to children. The research results indicate that although regional languages are still regarded as a cultural identity, their active use continues to decline among Generation Z and Generation Alpha. In conclusion, revitalization is necessary through the integration of digital technology, the strengthening of local content in school curricula, and collective awareness within families as the smallest unit of language preservation. These efforts are crucial to ensure that regional languages do not merely become historical artifacts but remain living languages in the modern era.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

ijssr

Publisher

Subject

Decision Sciences, Operations Research & Management Economics, Econometrics & Finance Environmental Science Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Law, Crime, Criminology & Criminal Justice Social Sciences

Description

International Journal of Social Service and Research is a double-blind, peer-reviewed academic journal with open access to social and scientific fields. The journal is published monthly by Ridwan Institute. International Journal of Social Service and Research provides a means for sustained ...