Journal of Indonesian Islamic Studies
Vol. 5 No. 2 (2026): Journal of Indonesian Islamic Studies (April)

The Unifying Language: Traces of Tolerance and Social Harmony in Palopo City

Kartini Kartini (Universitas Islam Negeri Palopo)
Bungawati Bungawati (Universitas Islam Negeri Palopo)
Wahibah Wahibah (Universitas Islam Negeri Palopo)
Ulfiyah Ulfiyah (Universitas Islam Negeri Palopo)
Zainur Roziqin (Universitas Islam Negeri Palopo)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Apr 2026

Abstract

Language plays a crucial role in building public awareness of the importance of tolerance, particularly amidst increasing cultural diversity and the potential for social friction in multicultural societies. Palopo City, a region with diverse ethnicities, languages, and social backgrounds, faces challenges in maintaining social harmony. This study aims to analyze the role of language in fostering tolerance and social harmony in the multicultural society of Palopo City. This study uses a qualitative approach with a field study method. Data collection techniques through observation, interviews, and documentation. The object of the study is the practice of language use in social interactions among residents of Palopo City. Data validity was tested using data triangulation and source triangulation. Data analysis includes three stages: data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. The results show that language functions as a communication tool, a unifying instrument, a means of strengthening relationships, and a form of social empathy. The practices of code switching, code mixing, and language adjustment according to the social context strengthen interethnic solidarity and prevent misunderstandings. These findings confirm that adaptive, polite, and contextual language practices contribute to the creation of a tolerant and harmonious society in Palopo City. The community, educators, and community leaders in Palopo City need to implement adaptive, polite, and inclusive language practices as a primary strategy in strengthening tolerance and social harmony in a multicultural society.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

jiis

Publisher

Subject

Religion Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Other

Description

Journal of Indonesian Islamic Studies is a high-quality open-access and peer-reviewed research journal with e-ISSN 2808-8395. Journal of Indonesian Islamic Studies providing a platform that welcomes and acknowledges high quality empirical original research papers about is a publication media to ...