Eksistensi Bahasa Indonesia di Era Globalisasi dan Digitalisasi: Kajian Sosiolinguistik terhadap Penggunaan Bahasa oleh Mahasiswa Generasi Z

Abstract

Indonesian holds a crucial position as a unifying language that maintains national identity and strengthens the nation's social unity. However, in the era of globalization and digitalization, its existence faces serious challenges, including the dominance of foreign languages, rampant uncontrolled code-switching, and the use of language that deviates from standard norms, particularly on social media and among Generation Z. This study aims to examine the existence of Indonesian, along with the obstacles and opportunities for its development amidst the rapid flow of globalization and digitalization. The method used is a literature review, examining various sources discussing contemporary linguistic phenomena. The results show that globalization and digital developments have a significant impact on language usage patterns, particularly among the younger generation, who frequently use digital abbreviations, mix foreign languages, and ignore spelling and punctuation rules in formal communication. However, this era also presents opportunities to strengthen Indonesian through the use of digital platforms, language campaigns on social media, and innovative programs that can attract the younger generation to use the national language more creatively. In conclusion, maintaining the sustainability of the Indonesian language in the era of globalization and digitalization requires comprehensive measures, including improving the quality of language learning, developing engaging digital content, enforcing regulations on language use in public spaces, and raising awareness among the younger generation about the importance of the national language as a national identity. With these efforts, Indonesian will survive and thrive as a unifying language that strengthens national harmony amidst global challenges.