Qouted in full from: https://fib.ugm.ac.id/2025/05/pengukuhan-prof-dr-hendrokumoro-m-hum-sebagai-guru-besar-bidang-ilmu-linguistik-fakultas-ilmu-budaya-ugm.html
A solemn atmosphere enveloped the Senate Hall, Central Building of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) on Thursday (8/5/2025), when the Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM inaugurated Prof. Dr. Hendrokumoro, M.Hum. as Professor of Linguistics. This inauguration became a historic moment for the Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture Study Program of the Faculty, which was also proud of the achievement of one of its best lecturers.
In his scientific speech entitled “The Existence of Javanese Language Today: Its Role, Challenges, and Opportunities”, Prof. Dr. Hendrokumoro, M.Hum. expressed his concern about the condition of Javanese language in modern society. According to him, the use of Javanese language is currently shrinking, pushed by the dominance of Indonesian and foreign languages. This phenomenon, he continued, is a reflection of the problem of linguistic diversity in Indonesia which is facing the threat of extinction of regional languages.
Prof. Dr. Hendrokumoro, M.Hum, explained that Javanese language is a form of values, knowledge, and culture of the Javanese people. Javanese language has a variety of forms and variations, ranging from the level of speech, meaning, to the Javanese view of life that relates to God, himself, fellow humans, and the natural environment.
In response to these challenges, Prof. Dr. Hendrokumoro, M. Hum. proposed a new approach to preserving and teaching the Javanese language, which is more flexible, contextual, and fun. One of the strategies he offers is by linking Javanese language learning with today’s popular culture, such as songs, movies, and other digital media. “Language should be a bridge for mutual understanding, not a barrier between one person and another,” he said.
More than just an academic ceremony, this inaugural speech carries an important message about the urgency of preserving regional languages as part of the nation’s identity. Efforts to maintain the existence of Javanese language must be done collectively, starting from public awareness of the importance of cultural heritage sustainability. The event became a momentum for joint reflection on the importance of preserving local languages and cultures as part of building the character and identity of the nation.
