Unearthing the Intellectual Roots of the Name ‘Indonesia’: Construction of National Identity Among High School Students in Indonesia

Abstract

This study critically examines secondary school students’ comprehension of the historical origins of the name “Indonesia” and its role in shaping their national identity, focusing specifically on learners in Central Java. Employing a qualitative methodology, the research incorporates in-depth interviews and thematic analysis of student-authored reflective memos following group discussions. Findings reveal a nuanced and multifaceted understanding among participants, who associate the nomenclature “Indonesia” not merely with geographical constructs but with historical narratives of resistance and shared cultural values that underpin the nation’s identity. Significantly, students perceive the name as emblematic of Indonesia’s ethnocultural pluralism, reinforcing the principle of ‘unity in diversity’ as a foundational tenet of the republic. The study underscores the pedagogical imperative for inclusive, contextually grounded history instruction to cultivate national consciousness among youth. Its critical implications advocate for curricular reforms that prioritise interactive, student-centred approaches—enabling learners to engage reflexively with historiography and its contemporary resonances. By foregrounding the interplay between toponymy, collective memory, and identity formation, this research advances scholarly discourse on history education in Indonesia while proposing actionable strategies to foster informed patriotism through critical historicity.