Indigenous Language Diversity on Simeulue Island

Abstract

This study aims to describe the diversity of indigenous languages that exist on the island of Simeulue. This island is often also called Simalur Island which is located on the west coast of Aceh province. Administratively the island itself is a district, namely Simeulue district which consists of 10 districts. This research was conducted using a qualitative approach using field investigation and document review methods. Interviews were conducted with the chairman of the Aceh Traditional Council of Simeulue district as well as community leaders and traditional elders in the city of Sinabang. The results of the study show that on this island there are 3 native languages of Simeulue Island, namely Devayan, Sigulai, and Leukon. The Devayan language is spoken in the widest area, covering the districts of East Simeulue, West Teupah, South Teupah, Central Teupah and Teluk Dalam. The Sigulai language is spoken in the West Simeulue, Alafan, and Salang sub-districts. Meanwhile, the Leukon language is only spoken in 2 villages in the Alafan sub-district, namely Langi and Lafakha villages.