TETUN LANGUAGE ACTUALIZATION EFFORTS AMONG EAST TIMORESE REFUGEES IN OEBELO VILLAGE, KUPANG

Abstract

Tetun is an important aspect of cultural heritage for the Timorese population, who have been displaced in various parts of Indonesia. In Oebelo Village, located in Kupang, a group of Timorese refugees have settled for many years. However, the frequency of Tetun use in this community has decreased, influenced by cultural integration and the prevalence of Indonesian as their primary means of communication. This study investigates initiatives aimed at reviving Tetun among Timorese refugees in Oebelo Village, Kupang. The study aims to achieve the following objectives: (1) to determine the reasons behind the decreasing use of Tetun among Timorese refugees living in Oebelo Village; (2) to analyze various efforts to actualize Tetun that have been carried out by the refugee community; (3) to evaluate the effectiveness of the implemented Tetun language preservation programs; and (4) to make tactical suggestions to improve the implementation of Tetun in the future. The research approach uses a qualitative strategy, utilizing data collection methods such as participant observation, in-depth interviews with community leaders and young migrants, and examination of relevant documents. The research location was focused on Oebelo Village, Kupang, with research subjects including first-generation refugees who still actively use Tetun and the second generation who have experienced language shift. The results of the study indicate that factors such as mixed marriages, formal education in Indonesian, and the lack of Tetun language learning media are the main causes of the decline in the use of this language. Actualization efforts that have been made include organizing informal Tetun language classes, using Tetun in traditional ceremonies, and forming Tetun language discussion groups. However, these efforts still face various obstacles, especially limited resources and lack of systematic support. This study concludes that a more structured and sustainable strategy is needed to actualize Tetun, including the integration of language learning in formal education, the development of digital learning media, and strengthening the role of the family as the basis for language transmission.