X-URL: http://www.sil.org/ftp/ETHNOLOG13/AREAS/ASIA/INDM.TXT
Ethnologue: Asia
Indonesia, Maluku
1,500,000 to 1,700,000 (1987). Information mainly from SIL. Data accuracy
estimate: A2, B. The number of languages listed for Indonesia, Maluku is
131. Of those, 128 are living languages and 3 are extinct.
ALUNE (SAPALEWA, PATASIWA ALFOEREN) [ALP] 13,000 to 15,000 (1987 SIL). 5
villages in Seram Barat District, and 22 villages in Kairatu and Taniwel
districts, west Seram, central Maluku. 27 villages total. Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central
Maluku, East, Seram, Nunusaku, Three Rivers, Amalumute, Northwest Seram,
Ulat Inai. Dialects: KAIRATU, CENTRAL WEST ALUNE
(NINIARI-PIRU-RIRING-LUMOLI), SOUTH ALUNE (RAMBATU-MANUSSA-RUMBERU), NORTH
COASTAL ALUNE (NIKULKAN-MURNATEN-WAKOLO), CENTRAL EAST ALUNE
(BURIAH-WETH-LATURAKE). The largest language in west Seram. The people in
the interior, who are the majority, use the language daily. Usage in the
coastal villages is not as vigorous. 77% to 91% lexical similarity among
dialects. The southern dialect in Kairatu village is nearly extinct.
Rambatu dialect is reported to be prestigious. Kawe may be a dialect.
Related to Nakaela and Lisabata-Nuniali. 64% lexical similarity with
Lisabata-Nuniali, 63% with Hulung and Naka'ela. Access by boat from Ambon.
15% to 25% literate. Christian. Bible portions 1991. Work in progress.
AMAHAI (AMAHEI) [AMQ] 50 speakers (1987 SIL). 4 villages near Masohi,
southwest Seram, central Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian,
Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram,
Nunusaku, Piru Bay, East, Seram Straits, Uliase, Hatuhaha, Elpaputi.
Dialects: MAKARIKI, RUTAH, SOAHUKU. 87% lexical similarity between the
villages of Makariki and Rutah; probably two languages. Language chain
with Iha and Kaibobo. Also related to Elpaputih and Nusa Laut. 59% to 64%
to 69% lexical similarity with Saparua, 59% with Kamarian, 58% with
Kaibobo, 52% with Piru, Luhu, and Hulung, 50% with Alune, 49% with
Naka'ela, 47% with Lisabata-Nunialiand South Wemale, 45% with North Wemale
and Nuaulu, 44% with Buano and Saleman. Access by boat. Muslim, Christian.
Nearly extinct.
AMBELAU (AMBLAU) [AMV] 5,700 (1989 C. Grimes SIL 1989). Ambelau Island off
the southeastern coast of Buru Island. Wae Tawa village on the coast of
Buru, opposite Ambelau. 8 villages. Central Maluku. Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central
Maluku, Ambelau. Access by sea. Schools through junior high on Island.
Wild pigs and rocky terrain on Ambelau make cultivation impossible; that
is done in Wae Tawa village on Buru Island. Island, rocky, flat. Clove
cultivation; agriculturalists: vegetables, tubers; copra production.
Muslim.
APUTAI (ILPUTIH, OPOTAI, WELEMUR, TUTUNOHAN) [APX] 150 (1990 Hinton SIL).
Wetar Island, Ilputih village, south central Wetar coast, and Lurang
village, north central Wetar coast, south Maluku. Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Timor,
Southwest Maluku, Wetar. 79% lexical similarity with Perai, 74% with
Tugun, 69% with Iliun, 57% with Talur. Welemur dialect is extinct.
Speakers in Ilputih also speak Talur. Coastal. Survey needed.
ASILULU [ASL] 8,756 (1987 SIL). Asilulu, Ureng, Negeri Lima villages,
northwest Ambon Island, and some families in villages on the south coast
of the Hoamoal Peninsula in West Seram. Also spoken as second language in
northwest Ambon, north and west Seram, Manipa, Boano, Kelang islands.
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram, Nunusaku, Piru Bay, West,
Asilulu. Dialects: ASILULU, URENG, NEGERI LIMA (LIMA, HENALIMA). 88%
lexical similarity between Asilulu and Negeri Lima. 78% to 82% lexical
similarity with Hila-Kaitetu, 72% to 73% with the Wakal dialect of Hitu,
67% to 72% with Larike-Wakasihu, 71% to 73% with Luhu on Seram. Access by
sea, trail. 15% to 25% literate. Trade language. Coastal. Muslim.
BABAR, NORTH [BCD] 1,500 (1989 Taber SIL) in 6 villages. North Babar
Islands, east of Timor, south Maluku. 6 villages. Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Babar,
North. Access by foot, boat. Reported dialect variation. Vigorous language
use. Coastal. Agriculturalists: maize, cosbi; fishermen. Christian.
BABAR, SOUTHEAST [VBB] 3,325 (1989 Taber SIL). Southeast Babar Island,
south Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Babar, South, Masela-South Babar. Survey needed.
BANDA [BND] 3,000 (1987 SIL). West and northeastern side of Kei Besar
Island in Kei Islands, villages of Banda-Eli and Banda-Elat, south Maluku.
There may be a third village. The people originally came from the Banda
Islands, but the language is no longer spoken there. Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central
Maluku, East, Banda-Geser. Dialects: ELI, ELAT. Banda used for all
purposes among themselves. Second language is Kei. Distinct from other
languages of south Maluku. Muslim.
BARAKAI (WORKAI) [BAJ] 4,300 (1995 J. Hughes). Barakai Island, southeast
Aru Islands; 4 villages on Barakai Island (Longgar, Apara, Bemun, and
Mesiang) and one on Gomo-Gomo Island northeast of Barakai, south Maluku.
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Aru. Dialects: BARAKAI, MESIANG. Language use is
vigorous. Closely related to Karey, 70% lexical similarity with Batuley.
Christian, Muslim, traditional religion.
BATI (GAH) [BVT] 3,500 (1989 Loski). Eastern Seram Island along the coast
between Kian Darat and Keleser, and in the interior. Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central
Maluku, East, Banda-Geser, Geser-Gorom. Related to Geser and Watubela.
Strong separation of ethnolinguistic identity with Geser. Many claim to be
bilingual in Geser. Muslim. Survey needed.
BATULEY (WATULAI, GWATALEY) [BAY] 3,840 excluding Mariri (1995 J. Hughes).
7 villages in Aru on small islands off the east coast of Wokam Island,
south Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Aru. Language use is vigorous. Fairly closely related
to Kompane to the north and Lola to the south, slightly more distant from
Dobel, and 70% lexical similarity with Barakai and Karey. It has 81%
lexical similarity with Mariri, and Batuley speakers consider it to be a
separate language. Muslim (5 southern villages), Christian (3 northern
villages).
BENGGOI (BENGOI, KOBI-BENGGOI, UHEI-KACLAKIN, UHEI KACHLAKAN,
UHEI-KAHLAKIM, ISAL) [BGY] 350 (1989 Loski and Loski SIL). North coast,
Werinama and Bula districts, east Seram, central Maluku, 3 villages
(Benggoi, Balakeo, Lesa). Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian,
Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram,
Manusela-Seti. Dialects: LESA, BENGGOI, BALAKEO. 70% lexical similarity
among 'dialects'; 54% to 66% with Liana-Seti, 46% to 50% with Salas
Gunung, 32% to 46% with Manusela. 'Isal' was given by Salzner in the area
where Benggoi is located; the name is not used now. Christian, Muslim.
Survey needed.
BOANO (BUANO) [BZN] 3,240 (1982). Boano Island west of Seram, mainly in
North Buano village, central Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian,
Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram,
Nunusaku, Piru Bay, West, Hoamoal, East. Language use is vigorous in north
Boano. It may be extinct in southern Boano. Related to Larike-Wakasihu.
60% lexical similarity with Luhu, 61% with Lisabata-Nuniali (closest).
Muslim (northern Boano), Christian (southern Boano).
BOBOT (WERINAMA, HATUMETEN, ATIAHU, AHTIAGO, NTAU) [BTY] 4,500 (1989 Loski
and Loski SIL). Southeast Seram, Werinama District, from the village of
Atiahu to Kota Baru, and Tunsai village in the Liana area, central Maluku.
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram, Bobot. Atiahu is a village
name, not a dialect. 44% lexical similarity with Sepa and Teluti, 42% with
Atamanu. Coastal. Muslim.
BULI [BZQ] 1,800 to 2,000 (1983 C. Grimes SIL). North Maluku, central
Halmahera, east coast, three villages. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian,
Central-Eastern, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, South Halmahera-West New
Guinea, South Halmahera, Southeast. Dialects: BULI, WAYAMLI (WAJAMLI,
JAWANLI). Access by sea only; no roads, few boats. Several communities of
over 100 dwellings. Coconut plantations. Muslim, Christian.
BURU (BOEROE, BURUESE) [MHS] 32,980, including 6,622 Wae Sama, 9,600
Masarete, 14,258 Rana, 500 Fogi, and 2,000 in Ambon (1989 C. Grimes SIL).
South and southeast Buru Island, central Maluku, Ambon, Jakarta, and the
Netherlands. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, Buru. Dialects: MASARETE (SOUTH BURU),
WAE SAMA (WAESAMA), CENTRAL BURU (RANA, WAE GEREN, WAE KABO), FOGI (LI
EMTEBAN, TOMAHU). 90% lexical similarity between Masarete and Wae Sama,
88% between Masarete and Rana, 80% between Wae Sama and Rana, 68% between
Li Enyorot (Lisela) and Masarete, 48% between Liliali and Masarete, 45%
between Kayeli and Masarete, 44% between Ambelau and Masarete, 27% to 33%
between Buru and the languages of Sula. There are word taboos and complex
intermarriage patterns on the island. Li Garan is a special taboo dialect
spoken by the Rana people (3,000 to 5,000 users). Vigorous language use in
most areas (not Lisela). Fogi has apparently undergone complete shift to
Ambonese Malay. Grammar. Access by sea from Ambon. Typology: SVO;
prepositions; genitives before nouns; predominantly head marking; CV, CVC,
V, VC; non-tonal. Levels of bilingualism for Ambonese Malay: 0:15%, 1:20%,
2:50%, 3:10%, 4:5%, 5:0%; Indonesian: 0:15%, 1:40%, 2:35%, 3:7%, 4:3%,
5:0%. Coastal, mountain slope. Swidden agriculturalists, cloves, copra.
Altitude: 0 to 5,000 feet. Traditional religion, Muslim, Christian. Bible
portions 1904-1991. Work in progress.
DAI [DIJ] 808 (1981 Wurm and Hattori); 3 villages. South, Dai and Babar
islands; Dai is 15 miles north of Babar. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian,
Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Babar, North. 72% lexical
similarity with Dawera-Daweloor (closest), 71% with Nakarahamto, 49% with
Masela-South Babar, 48% with Tepa (Luang). No dialect variation. Language
use is vigorous. Second language is Malay. Access by sea. Mountain slope.
Agriculturalists: maize, cosbi; fishermen. Altitude: sea level. Christian.
DAMAR, EAST (SOUTH DAMAR) [DMR] 2,800 (1990 SIL). Six villages along the
east side of Damar Island, north and east of Roma Island, north of the
eastern tip of Timor Island, south Maluku. Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Timor,
Southwest Maluku, East Damar. Not intelligible with West Damar.
DAMAR, WEST (NORTH DAMAR) [DRN] 800 (1987 SIL). Two villages on the north
side of Damar Island, north of the eastern tip of Timor Island, south
Maluku, Indonesia. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern,
Central Malayo-Polynesian, West Damar. Not intelligible with East Damar.
DAWERA-DAWELOOR (DAVELOR) [DDW] 1,500 or fewer (1989 Taber SIL). South
Maluku, six villages on Dawera and Daweloor islands. The islands are 11
miles northeast of Babar Island. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian,
Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Babar, North. Minor dialect
differences. Vigorous language use. Malay is speakers' second language.
Access by sea. Coastal. Agriculturalists: maize, cosbi; fishermen.
Altitude: sea level. Christian.
DOBEL (KOBRO'OR, KOBROOR, DOIBEL) [KVO] 7,000 (1995 J. Hughes). Aru
Islands, along the whole east coast of Kobror Island, one village in
southeast Wokam Island, 4 villages on both sides of the eastern half of
Barakai Strait (on both Kobror Islands and Koba Island), and 2 villages in
central Kobror Island. 18 villages. Southeast Maluku. Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Aru.
Dialects: INLAND DOBEL, SOUTHEAST DOBEL, NORTHEAST DOBEL. Language use is
vigorous. Ambonese Malay is used with outsiders. Some pre-school children
do not know Ambonese Malay. At least three dialects. Koba has 78% to 86%
lexical similarity with Dobel; further intelligibility testing needed.
Related to Lola and Lorang. 25% to 50% literate. Christian, Muslim. Bible
portions 1991. Work in progress.
ELPAPUTIH (ELPAPUTI) [ELP] West Seram, central Maluku. Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central
Maluku, East, Seram, Nunusaku, Piru Bay, East, Seram Straits, Uliase,
Hatuhaha, Elpaputi. Closest to Nusalaut, Amahai. Survey needed.
EMPLAWAS [EMW] 250 (1989 Taber SIL). Emplawas village, southwest Babar
Island, south Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern,
Central Malayo-Polynesian, Babar, South, Southwest Babar. Survey needed.
FORDATA (LARAT, VAI TNEBAR) [FRD] 50,000 including 25,000 in the language
area, 25,000 throughout Indonesia (1995 SIL). Southeast Maluku, northern
Tanimbar Islands of the Fordata, Larat, the Molu-Maru group, a few
villages on the northwest part of Yamdena, and on Seira off the west coast
of Yamdena. 30 villages. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern,
Central Malayo-Polynesian, Southeast Maluku, Kei-Tanimbar, Kei-Fordata.
Dialects: FODATA-LARAT I, FORDATA-LARAT II, MOLO-MARU, SERA. Language use
is vigorous. Seira is the most divergent dialect. 68% lexical similarity
with Kei. 50% to 75% literate. Elementary schools in nearly every village,
secondary schools for every 3 or 4 villages. Trade language formerly of
the Tanimbar Islands and the language of ritual. It is now not well known
by speakers of the other three languages, except for some older people who
use it for ritual. Coastal, many with reef ecosystems. Swidden
agriculturalists: diversification of crops and planting cycles. Muslim,
Christian. Bible portions 1996. Work in progress.
GALELA [GBI] 79,000 including 41,000 Kadai, 10,000 Kadina, 24,000 Morotai,
and 4,000 Sopi (1990 SIL). North Maluku, Galela Bay and north of Tobelo to
the northern tip of Halmahera, Morotai Island except southeast quadrant,
islands of Gunage and Moari near Kayoa, Bacan, Obi, scattered along the
southwest coast of Halmahera. West Papuan, North Halmahera, North,
Galela-Loloda. Dialects: KADAI, KADINA, MOROTAI, SOPI. Vigorous use of
language in daily communication. Speakers are bilingual in Indonesian.
Laba may be a dialect. Speakers have 65% intelligibility of Loloda, Loloda
85% of Galela. Access by paved road from Tobelo city. Sea connections to
Ternate and Tobelo. Paved commercial airstrip. 50% to 75% literate.
Dictionary. Grammar. Agriculturalists, fishermen. Christian, Muslim. Bible
portions 1990-1991. Work in progress.
GAMKONORA [GAK] 1,500 (1987 Voorhoeve and Visser). North Halmahera, a few
villages along the coast to the south of the Ibu area, north Maluku. West
Papuan, North Halmahera, North, Sahu. 81% lexical similarity with Waioli.
Intelligibility testing needed with languages in Sahu subgroup. Access by
sea or land from Jailolo. Muslim, Christian. Survey needed.
GANE (GANI, GIMAN) [GZN] 2,900 (1982 Teljeur). North Maluku, Halmahera
Island, south part of southern peninsula. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian,
Central-Eastern, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, South Halmahera-West New
Guinea, South Halmahera, East Makian-Gane. Close to East Makian and Kayoa.
Language attitudes are positive. Access by sea only. Muslim. Survey
needed.
GEBE (GEBI) [GEI] 1,000 to 3,000 in four villages (1983 C. and B. D.
Grimes SIL). North Maluku, Gebe, Yoi'umiyal, and Gag Islands between
southern Halmahera and Waigeo Island (Irian Jaya). Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, South
Halmahera-West New Guinea, West New Guinea, Cenderawasih Bay, Raja Ampat.
Dialect: UMERA. 44% lexical similarity with Patani. Intelligibility
testing needed with languages of the Raja Ampat Islands of Irian Jaya.
Language used in daily communication. Bilingualism in Indonesian
increasing because of mining operation and schools. A school in each
village. Muslim. Survey needed.
GESER-GOROM (GESER, GESA, GOROM, GORAM, GORAN, GORONG, SERAM, SERAN, SERAN
LAUT) [GES] 36,500 (1989 Loski and Loski SIL). Eastern end of Seram, and
the Gorom Islands. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern,
Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Banda-Geser, Geser-Gorom.
Dialects: GORAM LAUT, MINA MINA GORONG, KELIMURI. 73% to 93% lexical
similarity among dialects, 51% to 61% with Watubela. 50% to 75% literate.
Muslim.
GORAP [GOQ] 1,000 (1992 SIL). North Maluku, Morotai Island, Pilowo and
Waringin villages; Central Halmahera, Bobane and Igo villages.
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Unclassified. Reported to be a mixed
language, including Ternatan and Malay words, with different word order
from other languages of north Halmahera or the Austronesian languages.
Reported to be in daily use. 85% lexical similarity with Indonesian, but
understanding is limited. Speakers consider Sulawesi to be their ancestral
homeland. Survey needed.
HARUKU [HRK] 18,219 (1989 SIL). Haruku Island, Lease Islands, central
Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram, Nunusaku, Piru Bay.
Dialects: HULALIU, PELAUW, KAILOLO, ROHOMONI. Each village is a separate
dialect. 81% to 92% lexical similarity among dialects. 74% to 76% lexical
similarity with Tulehu, 67% to 71% with Saparua. Ambonese Malay is the
speakers' second language. Muslim, Christian. Survey needed.
HITU [HIT] 15,965 (1987 SIL). 5 villages: Wakal, Hitu, Mamala, Morela, and
Hila; Hitu Peninsula, Ambon Island. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian,
Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram,
Nunusaku, Piru Bay, East, Seram Straits, Ambon. Dialects: WAKAL, MORELA,
MAMALA, HITU, HILA. Language use is moderate to vigorous. 67% to 82%
lexical similarity with Seit-Kaitetu, 74% to 82% with Tulehu. Access by
road. Muslim, Christian.
HORURU [HRR] Seram, central Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian,
Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram,
Nunusaku, Three Rivers, Amalumute, Northwest Seram. Hulung may be related.
This may be an alternate name for another language. Survey needed.
HOTI [HTI] 10 elderly speakers, possibly (1987 SIL). East Seram, central
Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram, East Seram. Survey needed.
HUAULU (ALAKAMAT, BAHASA ASLI) [HUD] 300 (1987 SIL). East Seram, central
Maluku, northwest of Manusela, 10 villages. Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central
Maluku, East, Seram, Manusela-Seti. 64% to 72% lexical similarity with
Manusela dialects. Culturally distinct from Manusela. Traditional
religion. Work in progress.
HUKUMINA (BAMBAA) [HUW] 1 (1989 SIL). Central Maluku, northwest Buru
Island. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Unclassified. The one speaker is
80 years old (1989). Nearly extinct.
HULUNG [HUK] 10 or fewer (1991 Y. Taguchi SIL). Hulung village, and
Sauweli hamlet, west Seram, central Maluku. Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central
Maluku, East, Seram, Nunusaku, Three Rivers, Amalumute, Northwest Seram,
Hulung. 67% lexical similarity with Lisabata-Nuniali, 66% with Naka'ela
and South Wemale, 63% with Alune, 59% with North Wemale. Access by boat.
Christian. Nearly extinct.
IBU [IBU] A few elderly speakers (1987 Voorhoeve and Visser 1987); 50 to
200 in the ethnic group (1984). North Maluku, northern Halmahera Island,
mouth of Ibu River, villages of Gamlamo and Gamici. West Papuan, North
Halmahera, North, Sahu. May be inherently intelligible with Sahu. Nearly
extinct.
ILIUN (HAHUTAU, HAHUTAN, LIMERA, ILMAUMAU, ERAI) [ILU] 1,400 or more (1990
Hinton SIL). Wetar Island, villages of Telemar, Karbubu, Klishatu,
Ilmaumau, Erai (Eray), Nabar, and Esulit on the west end of Wetar, and
Istutun village on Lirang Island off the southwest tip of Wetar, south
Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Timor, Southwest Maluku, Wetar. 73% lexical similarity
with Tugun, 69% with Aputai, 67% with Perai, 51% with Talur. All speakers
now speak the Iliun dialect; Jeh and Juru are extinct. Survey needed.
IMROING (IMROIN) [IMR] 450 (1989 Taber SIL). Village of Imroing, southwest
Babar Island, south Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian,
Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Babar, South, Southwest Babar.
Survey needed.
KADAI [KZD] 300 to 500 (1982 SIL). North Maluku, Sula Islands, Taliabu
Island, interior mountains. Possibly in the mountains of Mangole Island
also. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, Sula, Taliabo. The government wants to
resettle them along the coast. May be intelligible with Taliabu.
Traditional religion. Survey needed.
KAIBOBO (KAIBUBU) [KZB] 500 (1983 Collins and Voorhoeve). Kaibobo,
Hatusua, Waisamu, Kamarian, Seruawan, Tihulale, and Rumahkay villages in
Kairatu District; 8 villages total, Piru Bay, west Seram, central Maluku.
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram, Nunusaku, Piru Bay, East.
Dialects: KAIBOBO, HATUSUA. Language use may be shifting to Ambonese Malay
in some villages. 82% to 88% lexical similarity between Kaibobo and
Hatusua, 75% with Kamarian, 62% to 65% with Saparua, 62% with Piru, 58% to
62% with Luhu, 61% with Naka'ela. Related to Lisabata-Nuniali and Saparua.
Access by boat. Christian. Survey needed.
KAMARIAN (KAMARIANG, SERUAWAN) [KZX] 10 or fewer (1987 SIL). West Seram,
central Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram, Nunusaku, Piru Bay, East,
Seram Straits, Uliase, Kamarian. 75% lexical similarity with Kaibobo, 67%
with Saparua, 60% with Lisabata-Nuniali, 59% with Amahai, Piru, Naka'ela,
and Hulung. Nearly extinct.
KAO (KAU, KA'U) [KAX] 200 to 400 possibly (1983 C. Grimes SIL). North
Maluku, interior North Halmahera, around the town of Kao, near the mouth
of the Kao River. West Papuan, North Halmahera, North, Kao River. Could
marginally be a dialect of Pagu, but relates uniquely to other languages
in the Kao River subbranch. Intelligibility testing needed. Access by air.
50% to 75% literate. Survey needed.
KAREY (KEREI, KREI) [KYD] 950 (1995 J. Hughes). Village of Karey, east
coast of Tarangan Island, southern Aru Islands, south Maluku.
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Aru. May be intelligible with Barakai. 70% lexical
similarity with East Tarangan and Batuley. Language use is vigorous.
Christian, Muslim. Survey needed.
KAYELI (KAJELI, CAJELI, CAELI, GAELI) [KZL] 3 speakers out of 800 in the
ethnic group (1995). Not used for 3 decades by the speakers (1989 C.
Grimes SIL). Southern Namlea Bay, north Buru Island, central Maluku.
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram, Nunusaku, Kayeli.
Dialects: KAYELI, LELIALI (LILIALI), LUMAETE (LUMAITI, MUMAITE, LUMARA).
Speakers are over 60 years old. Other people have completed shift to
Ambonese Malay as first language. The ethnic group continues to function.
Lumaete became extinct recently and Leliali became extinct in March, 1989.
Muslim. Nearly extinct.
KEI (EVAV, KAI) [KEI] 86,000 (1990 SIL). Kei Kecil, Kei Besar, and
surrounding islands, except the villages of Banda Eli and Banda Elat on
Kei Besar, and the Kur Islands, where Kei is used as a lingua franca.
About 207 villages. Southeast Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian,
Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Southeast Maluku,
Kei-Tanimbar, Kei-Fordata. Dialects: KEI KECIL, KEI BESAR, TAYANDO,
TANIMBAR KEI (ATNEBAR), TA'AM. Used in everyday life. 60% lexical
similarity with Fordata. Tanimbar Kei is closer to Fordata than the other
Kei dialects. 50% to 75% literate. Dictionaries. Grammars. Trade language
of speakers of Banda and Kur, and outsiders like the ethnic Chinese and
Butonese who live in Kei. Agriculturalists: millet. Muslim, Christian,
traditional religion. Work in progress.
KISAR (MEHER, YOTOWAWA) [KJE] 20,000 (1995 SIL). Kisar Island northeast of
Timor Island, 19 villages, villages of Hila and Likagraha (Solath) on Roma
Island, 3 villages on Wetar Island (Amau, Naumatan, Hi'ai), and several
hundred in Ambon city, Dili and Kupang. Used as a second language by a
handful of Oirata speakers on Kisar. South Maluku. Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Timor,
Southwest Maluku, Kisar-Roma. 14% lexical similarity with Oirata, which
has sometimes been called a dialect. Called Yotowawa or Meher locally. 25%
to 50% literate. Trade language. Christian. Bible portions 1995. Work in
progress.
KOBA [KPD] 520 (1995 SIL). Aru Islands, southeast Maluku. Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Aru. 78% to
86% lexical similarity with Dobel; intelligibility of Dobel is limited.
KOLA (WARILAU, KULAHA, MARLASI) [KVV] 7,700 (1995 J. Hughes). North Aru
Islands, all around the coast of Kola Island and adjacent islands, south
Maluku. 22 villages. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern,
Central Malayo-Polynesian, Aru. Language use is vigorous. Outsiders want
to learn it. Intelligibility testing showed Marlasi is intelligible to
Kompane speakers, but with some possible adaptation of literature needed.
77% lexical similarity with Kompane, 70% with Ujir. 25% to 50% literate.
Work in progress.
KOMPANE (KOMFANA, KONGAMPANI) [KVP] 330 (1995 J. Hughes). Northeast Aru in
Kompane village on the east coast of Kongan Island, south of Kola and
north of Wokam islands, south Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian,
Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Aru. Closely related to Kola,
linguistically between Kola and Batuley. Intelligibility of Kola is good,
but some adaptation of literature may be needed. Language use is vigorous.
Muslim. Survey needed.
KUR [KUV] 2,000 to 3,000 possibly (1985 J. Hughes SIL). Kur Island and
nearby islands, western Kei Kecil District, south Maluku. Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Teor-Kur.
Separate language from Kei; 47% to 50% lexical similarity. Kur has 71% to
83% lexical similarity with Teor, 41% with Watubela, 38% with Geser.
Survey needed to determine boundaries of intelligibility with dialects to
the north and the central dialect, and with Teor. Language use is
vigorous. Muslim.
LABA (SOUTH LOLODA, KEDI) [LAU] 2,000 (1991 H. Shelden SIL). North Maluku,
4 villages to the interior of the south end of Loloda District. West
Papuan, North Halmahera, North, Galela-Loloda. Phonology like Galela; 75%
lexical similarity, 70% intelligibility; 78% lexical similarity with
Loloda, 75% intelligibility. Christian. Survey needed.
LAHA (CENTRAL AMBON) [LAD] 3,894 (1987 SIL). Laha village, and several
nearby smaller villages, south central coast of Ambon Island, central
Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram, Nunusaku, Piru Bay, East,
Seram Straits, Ambon. Related to Seram languages, but distinct from
Manusela. 64% to 66% lexical similarity with Asilulu and Hila-Kaitetu
(closest). Parents encourage children to speak Laha. Access by air, sea,
land. Muslim, Christian.
LARIKE-WAKASIHU [ALO] 12,557 (1987 SIL). Larike, Wakasihu, Tapi, Allang,
and Lai villages, southwest Hitu Peninsula, Ambon Island. Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central
Maluku, East, Seram, Nunusaku, Piru Bay, West, Hoamoal, East. Dialects:
ALLANG, WAKASIHU, LARIKE. 81% lexical similarity between Allang and Larike
and Wakasihu, 92% between Larike and Wakasihu. Only older people in
Allang, Allang Asaude, Uraur, and Urusana still speak Allang, but
apparently do not use it. Wakasihu may need separate literature from
Larike. 68% to 71% lexical similarity with Asilulu, 67% to 72% with Negeri
Lima. The western end of the Ambon dialect chain. Language use is vigorous
in Larike and Wakasihu, weak in Allang. 50% to 75% literate. Muslim
(Larike, Wakasihu), Christian (Allang).
LATU [LTU] 2,134 (1982 SIL). Latu village, Elpaputih Bay, southwest Seram
Island, central Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern,
Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram, Nunusaku, Piru
Bay, East, Seram Straits, Uliase, Hatuhaha, Saparua. 82% to 84% lexical
similarity with Saparua dialects; intelligibility testing needed. Survey
needed.
LETI [LTI] 7,500 (1995 M. Taber). Leti Island. Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Timor,
Southwest Maluku, Luang. Marginal intelligibility with Luang; 89% lexical
similarity. Matrilineal. They share a historical and cultural heritage
with Luang, but maintain their own identity and local pride. They
understand spoken Luang, but have difficulty with written Luang. 25% to
50% literate. Christian.
LIANA-SETI (LIANA, LIANAN, UHEI KACLAKIN, UHEI KACHLAKAN, UHEI KAHLAKIM,
TEULA, LIAMBATA-KOBI) [STE] 3,000 (1989 Loski and Loski SIL). Eastern
Teluti Bay to the north coast, districts of Seram, Bula, Werinama, and
Tehoru, central Maluku, 8 villages. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian,
Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram,
Manusela-Seti. Dialects: "SETI", WAHAKAIM, KOBI. Language use is vigorous.
Lexical similarity between Seti (westernmost and interior), and Wahakaim
(near coast) is 66% to 74%, Kobi and Seti 69% to 78%, Kobi and Wahakaim
70%; 42% to 61% with Manusela; 54% to 66% with Benggoi; 48% to 58% with
Salas Gunung. Speakers use the name 'Liana'; "Seti" is derogatory. Access
by boat from Ambon, trail to interior villages. 25% to 50% literate.
Christian. Work in progress.
LISABATA-NUNIALI (LISABATA, NUNIALI, NONIALI) [LCS] 1,830 or more (1982).
Spread across the north coast of West and North Seram, 5 villages, central
Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram, Nunusaku, Three Rivers,
Amalumute, Northwest Seram. Dialects: LISABATA-TIMUR, NUNIALI, SUKARAJA,
KAWA. Language use is vigorous except in Kawa. Lexical similarity between
Kawa (far western) and Lisabata Timur (far eastern) is 85%; 72% with
Naka'ela, 67% with Hulung, 63% with Alune. Speakers use Ambonese Malay as
second language. Access by boat from Ambon. Muslim, Christian (Nuniali).
LISELA (BURU, NORTH BURU, LI ENYOROT, LIET ENJOROT, WAYAPO) [LCL] 11,922
(1989 C. Grimes SIL). Northern and eastern coastal strips of Buru Island,
central Maluku. Some in Ambon. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian,
Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, Buru.
Dialects: LISELA (LICELA, LICELLA), TAGALISA. Language use is not
vigorous; a shift to Ambonese Malay is taking place. Access by sea, air.
Tropical forest, savannah. Coastal, mountains. Swidden agriculturalists,
eucalyptus oil. Altitude: 0 to 1,500 feet. Muslim, traditional religion.
Survey needed.
LOLA [LCD] 830 (1995 J. Hughes). 3 villages of Lola, Warabal, and Jambuair
on 3 islands east of Kobroor and Baun Islands, Aru Islands, southeast
Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Aru. Dialects: LOLA, WARABAL. Linguistically between
Batuley and Dobel; close to Koba. Language use is most vigorous in
Warabal; in Lola some young people use Ambonese Malay among themselves. In
Jambuair there are many non-Aru people, so Ambonese Malay is in common
use. Muslim. Survey needed.
LOLODA (LODA, NORTH LOLODA) [LOL] 15,000 including 2,000 Bakun (1991 SIL).
North Maluku, northwest coast of Halmahera. West Papuan, North Halmahera,
North, Galela-Loloda. Dialect: BAKUN. Intelligibility with Laba is very
limited. Speakers have 85% intelligibility of Galela, Galela has 65% of
Loloda. Bilingualism testing is needed with Galela. Vigorous language use.
Access by sea or overland from Galela. 50% to 75% literate. Grammar.
Christian, Muslim. Bible portions 1915. Survey needed.
LORANG [LRN] 325 (1995 J. Hughes). Village of Lorang, center of Aru, on
Koba Island. Southeast Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian,
Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Aru. Closely related to Koba,
and to a lesser extent to Dobel. Some similarities with Manombai, but
intelligibility is lower than might be expected. Language use is vigorous.
Lorang people can speak several local languages to some degree, and speak
Dobel from childhood. Christian. Survey needed.
LOUN [LOX] Few speakers. North central Seram, central Maluku.
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram, Nunusaku, Three Rivers,
Amalumute, Northwest Seram, Loun. Access by boat. Nearly extinct.
LUANG (LETRI LGONA, LITERI LAGONA, LGONA) [LEX] 20,000 (1995 Taber). Moa,
Lakor, Luang, Sermata, Wetan, northwest Babar Islands east of Timor, south
Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Timor, Southwest Maluku, Luang. Dialects: LUANG, WETAN
(WETANG), MOA, LAKOR. Intelligibility with Leti is marginal; 89% lexical
similarity. Testing is needed between Wetan and Luang. Matrilineal. 15% to
25% literate. Christian. Bible portions 1995. Work in progress.
LUHU [LCQ] 6,500 (1983 Collins and Voorhoeve). Luhu village on Hoamoal
Peninsula, west Seram Island, and Boano and Kelang islands, off of west
Seram. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram, Nunusaku, Piru Bay, West,
Hoamoal, West. Dialects: LUHU, BATU MERAH, KELANG. Language use is
vigorous. The Batu Merah dialect is also spoken on Ambon Island is nearly
extinct. Related to Manipa. 77% lexical similarity with Piru, 71% to 73%
with Asilulu. Historically one language with Piru. Related to Manipa.
Access by boat. Muslim.
MABA (BITJOLI, BICOLI, INGLI) [MQA] 3,000 to 7,000 (1983 C. and B. D.
Grimes SIL). North Maluku, northern coast of southeastern peninsula of
Halmahera, also in Wasilei area. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian,
Central-Eastern, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, South Halmahera-West New
Guinea, South Halmahera, Southeast. Intelligibility testing needed with
Patani and Buli. Access by sea only. 25% to 50% literate. Muslim. Survey
needed.
MAKIAN, EAST (MAKIAN TIMUR, MAKIAN DALAM) [MKY] 20,000 including 18,000 or
more in East Makian, 2,000 or more in Kayoa (1983 C. and B. D. Grimes
SIL). Eastern Makian Island, southern Mori Island, Kayoa Islands, west
coast of south Halmahera, Bacan and Obi Islands, north Maluku.
Transmigration project near Kao. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian,
Central-Eastern, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, South Halmahera-West New
Guinea, South Halmahera, East Makian-Gane. Dialects: EAST MAKIAN, KAYOA
(KAJOA). Close to Gane. Language attitudes are positive. Access by sea.
25% to 50% literate. Muslim.
MAKIAN, WEST (MAKIAN BARAT, MAKIAN LUAR) [MQS] 12,000; 7,000 on Makian
Island, 5,000 on Kayoa Islands (1977 Voegelin and Voegelin). Western
Makian Island, some of the Kayoa Islands, areas along the west coast of
southern Halmahera, north Maluku. West Papuan, North Halmahera, North,
West Makian. Language isolate within north Halmahera. Formerly classified
as Austronesian. Access by sea. 25% to 50% literate. Muslim.
MALAY, AMBONESE (MELAYU AMBON, AMBONESE) [ABS] 200,000 first language
speakers, other second language speakers in Indonesia (1987 J. Collins);
45,000 in Netherlands (1993 Johnstone); 20 to 25 or more in USA; 235,000
in all countries. Central Maluku, Ambon, Haruku, Nusa Laut, Saparua
Islands, along the coastal areas of Seram, and southern Maluku.
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Western Malayo-Polynesian, Sundic,
Malayic, Malayan, Local Malay. 81% lexical similarity with Standard Malay.
Marginal intelligibility with Indonesian. Difficult intelligibility with
Ternate Malay; speakers switch to Indonesian. Bilingualism in Indonesian
is high around Ambon city. Developed from Bazaar Malay and still reflects
some archaic forms. Further diverged by adapting to the vernaculars of
central Maluku. Considered to be a Malay-based creole by B.D. Grimes
(1988, 1991) and J. Holm (1989:581-3). 50% to 75% literate. Trade
language. Christian since early 16th century. NT 1877-1883. Survey needed.
MALAY, BACANESE (BACAN, BATJAN) [BTJ] 2,500 mother tongue speakers (1991
H. Shelden SIL); over 1,000 in Labuha (1987 J. Collins). North Maluku,
Bacan Island west of southern Halmahera. Centered around the site of the
former palace in Labuha, 1 village within about 5 km. walking distance
from Labuha, another 1 hour by dugout (Indomut), and half the population
of Waya and Lele villages on Mandioli Island. Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Western Malayo-Polynesian, Sundic, Malayic, Malayan,
Local Malay. No evidence of an earlier indigenous language (J. Collins).
The Portuguese cut off Bacan from other Malay in 1515. No historic
connection with Borneo since. No second language speakers. Junior high
school in Labuha. Access by sea and air from Ternate and Labuha. 50% to
75% literate. Agriculturalists (rural speakers). Muslim. Survey needed.
MALAY, NORTH MOLUCCAN (TERNATE MALAY) [MAX] A few hundred mother tongue
speakers (1987 J. Collins). North Maluku, Halmahera, Sula, and Obi
Islands. Mother tongue speakers in one neighborhood of Labuha (Christian),
and some other families with parents of different ethnic origins.
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Western Malayo-Polynesian, Sundic,
Malayic, Malayan, Local Malay. A few small communities speak it as mother
tongue. Most speakers use it as a second language. Intelligibility testing
needed with Indonesian and Menadonese Malay, a close relative. Many
bilinguals are competent in it at Foreign Service Institute levels 2 or 3.
Used between speakers of different languages. Used orally, not written.
50% to 75% literate. Trade language. Muslim, Christian. Survey needed.
MANGOLE (MANGOLI, SULA MANGOLI) [MQC] 4,000 to 7,000 (1983 C. and B. D.
Grimes SIL). North Maluku, southern coast of Mangole Island and northern
tip of Sulabesi of the Sula Islands. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian,
Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, Sula.
Intelligibility testing needed with dialects of Sula. Access by sea from
Sanana. Muslim. Survey needed.
MANIPA (SOOW HUHELIA) [MQP] 1,500 (1983 Collins and Voorhoeve). Manipa
Island west of Seram, central Maluku, 4 villages. Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central
Maluku, East. 72% lexical similarity with Luhu, 64% with Piru, 60% to 62%
with Hitu, 60% to 61% with Tulehu and Asilulu, 58% to 61% with
Hila-Kaitetu, 55% to 60% with Larike-Wakasihu, 56% with Boano and Kaibobo.
Access by boat from Ambon. Muslim. Survey needed.
MANOMBAI (MANOBAI, WOKAM, WAMAR) [WOO] 7,475 (1995 J. Hughes). West coast
of Wokam Island, from Wokam village southwards, in 21 villages along both
sides of Manombai Strait (Sungai) as far as Wakua, and in Benjina on
Kobror Island, and Gardakau on Maikor Island at the western end of Barakai
Strait, and small village of Kobamar on east coast of Wokam Island. It may
be no longer spoken on Wamar Island. Aru Islands, Southeast Maluku.
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Aru. Language use is vigorous. Dialect survey needed.
76% lexical similarity with Lorang. Not inherently intelligible with
Dobel. Christian, some Muslim.
MANUSELA (WAHAI, WAHINAMA) [WHA] 7,000 (1989 Loskii SIL). 30 villages,
Manusela mountains of north Seram, and along Teluti Bay in south Seram,
central Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram, Manusela-Seti. Dialects:
KANIKEH, HATUOLU, MANEO, SOUTH MANUSELA. Language use is vigorous. Kanikeh
has 66% to 74% lexical similarity with other varieties, Hatuolo 67% to
75%, Maneo 64% to 86%, Maneoratu 66% to 86%, South Manusela 67% to 80%. It
may be several languages. These have 64% to 72% with Huaulu, 42% to 61%
with Liana, 45% with Saleman. Grammar. Access by boat from Ambon. Mountain
slope. Traditional religion, Christian, Hindu. Survey needed.
MARIRI (MAIRIRI) [MQI] 390 (1995 J. Hughes). Eastern Aru on Mariri Island
east of Kobroor Island, 1 village, south Maluku. Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Aru. May be
intelligible with Batuley; 81% lexical similarity. Language use is
vigorous. Muslim. Survey needed.
MASELA, CENTRAL (CENTRAL MARSELA, MARSELA-SOUTH BABAR) [MKH] 511 (1980 de
Jonge). 3 villages on Marsela Island, south Maluku. Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Babar,
South, Masela-South Babar. Christian. Survey needed.
MASELA, EAST (EAST MARSELA) [VME] 519 (1980 de Jonge). 3 villages on
Marsela Island, south Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian,
Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Babar, South, Masela-South
Babar. Christian. Survey needed.
MASELA, WEST (WEST MARSELA) [MSS] 850 (1980 de Jonge). 5 villages on
Marsela Island, south Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian,
Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Babar, South, Masela-South
Babar. Christian. Survey needed.
MASIWANG (BONFIA) [BNF] 1,000 (1989 Loski and Loski SIL). Seram Island,
Waru Bay area, Bula District, central Maluku. Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central
Maluku, East, Seram, Masiwang. 44% lexical similarity with Bobot, 43% with
Salas Gunung, 39% with Sepa and Teluti, 36% with Liana and Atamanu. Some
use Geser as second language. Grammar. Survey needed.
MODOLE (MADOLE) [MQO] 2,000 (1983 C. and B. D. Grimes SIL). North Maluku,
interior north Halmahera Island, headwaters of Kao River. West Papuan,
North Halmahera, North, Kao River. Dialects: NORTH MODOLE, SOUTH MODOLE.
Access by foot, river from Kao. Some intermarriage with the Tobaru.
Intelligibility testing needed with Pagu dialects. Minimal differences
between north and south Modole. Language attitudes are positive.
Christian.
MOKSELA (MAKSELA, OPSELAN) [VMS] Central Maluku, possibly east Buru
Island, near Kayeli. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern,
Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, Buru. Last speaker died in
1974. Extinct.
NAKA'ELA [NAE] 5 (1985 Y. Taguchi SIL). Kairatu village, northwest Seram,
central Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram, Nunusaku, Three Rivers,
Amalumute, Northwest Seram, Ulat Inai. Formerly lived in mountains.
Reportedly decreased in number after moving down to Kairatu. 71% lexical
similarity with Lisabata-Nuniali, 66% with Hulung, 63% with Alune. Access
by boat from Ambon. Christian. Nearly extinct.
NILA [NIL] 1,800 (1989 Taber SIL). Transmigration area on south central
Seram Island, central Maluku. 6 villages. (Originally Nila Island in south
central Maluku). Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Timor, Southwest Maluku, Teun-Nila-Serua, Nila-Serua.
They have been moved to Seram because of volcanic activity on their
island. Close to Serua. Not intelligible with Teun. Survey needed.
NUAULU, NORTH (NUAULU, PATAKAI, FATAKAI) [NNI] 500 (1990 Bolton SIL). Two
villages on the north coast of central Seram Island, central Maluku.
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram, Sawai-Nuaulu. 67% lexical
similarity with South Nuaulu, 64% with Saleman. A distinct language from
Huaulu.
NUAULU, SOUTH (NUAULU, PATAKAI, FATAKAI) [NXL] 1,500 (1995 Taber). 6
villages on the south coast and interior of Amahai District, Seram Island,
central Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram, Sawai-Nuaulu. Language use
is vigorous. 67% lexical similarity with North Nuaulu, 50% with South
Wemale, Hulung, and Naka'ela, 48% with Saleman. Different from Huaulu.
Many speakers use Sepa as second language. Some people do not speak
Indonesian. 5% to 15% literate. Christian, traditional religion. Bible
portions 1991-1995. Work in progress.
NUSA LAUT (NUSALAUT) [NUL] 10 speakers possibly out of an ethnic group of
2,226 (1989 SIL). Titawai village, Nusa Laut Island, Lease Islands,
central Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram, Nunusaku, Piru Bay, East,
Seram Straits, Uliase, Hatuhaha, Elpaputi. 69% lexical similarity with
Saparua, 65% with Amahai. The language is barely used, and only by a few
older people. Christian. Nearly extinct.
OIRATA (MAARO) [OIA] 1,221 (1987 SIL). East and west Oirata in southeast
Kisar Island, south Maluku, and in Ambon city (several hundred). Trans-New
Guinea, South Bird's Head-Timor-Alor-Pantar, Timor-Alor-Pantar, Oirata.
14% lexical similarity with other languages on Oirata, and 10% with
central Maluku languages. Related to languages in east Timor, but not
closely. Typology: SOV. Christian. Survey needed.
PAGU (PAGO, PAGOE) [PGU] 2,000 to 3,000 (1983 C. and B.D. Grimes SIL).
North Maluku, interior North Halmahera south of the Modole language area
out to the mouth of the Kao River. West Papuan, North Halmahera, North,
Kao River. Dialects: ISAM, PAGU, TOLIWIKU (TOLILIKO). Access by air to Kao
and then by river. Intelligibility testing needed with Modole and Kao. 25%
to 50% literate. Muslim, Christian.
PALUMATA (PALAMATA, BALAMATA) [PMC] Central Maluku, northwest Buru Island.
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, Buru. Extinct.
PATANI [PTN] 7,000 to 9,000 (1983 C. and B. D. Grimes SIL). North Maluku,
the entire narrow tip of the southeastern peninsula of Halmahera,
extending west along coast of peninsula. Nine villages: Patani, Peniti,
Tepeleu, Gemya, Kipai, Wailegi, Yeisowo, Banemo, Moreala, Sibenpopu (with
some Tobelo speakers). Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern,
Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, South Halmahera-West New Guinea, South
Halmahera, Southeast. Vigorous language use in daily communication.
Intelligibility testing needed with Maba. Schools. Access by sea from
Ternate or Gebe. 25% to 50% literate. Swidden agriculturalists, loggers.
Muslim.
PAULOHI [PLH] 50 possible speakers (1982). Central Maluku, West Seram,
western shore of Elpaputih Bay in south central Seram Island, 2 villages,
Kecamatan Amahai. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern,
Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram, Nunusaku, Piru
Bay, East, Seram Straits, Solehua. Access by boat. Experienced a severe
earthquake and tidal wave. Nearly extinct.
PERAI (TUTUNOHAN) [WET] 278 (1990 Hinton). Wetar Island, north of Timor,
south Maluku, Uhak and Moning villages on the northeast coast.
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Timor, Southwest Maluku, Wetar. 79% lexical similarity
with Aputai, 76% with Tugun, 67% with Iliun, 51% with Talur. Survey
needed.
PIRU [PPR] 10 or fewer (1985 Y. Taguchi SIL). 1 village, west Seram
Island, central Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern,
Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram, Nunusaku, Three
Rivers, Amalumute, Northwest Seram. 72% lexical similarity with Luhu; they
are historically one language. Access by boat. People use Ambonese Malay
as first or second language. Christian. Nearly extinct.
ROMA (ROMANG) [RMM] 1,700 (1991 SIL). Jerusu village, Roma Island, north
of Timor Island, south Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian,
Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Timor, Southwest Maluku,
Kisar-Roma. 25% to 50% literate. Christian.
SAHU (SA'U, SAU, SAHU'U) [SUX] 7,500; 3,500 in Tala'ai; 4,000 in Pa'disua
(1987 Voorhoeve and Visser). North Maluku, southwestern north Halmahera
Island. West Papuan, North Halmahera, North, Sahu. Dialects: PA'DISUA
(PALISUA), TALA'I. Vigorous language use in daily communication. Ibu may
be a dialect. Close to Waioli and Gamkonora. Intelligibility testing
needed with other languages in Sahu group. Access by sea, or land from
Jailolo. 25% to 50% literate. Dictionary. Grammar. Christian, Muslim. Work
in progress.
SALAS (LIAMBATA, LENKAITAHE, SALAS GUNUNG) [SGU] 50 (1989 Loski and Loski
SIL). Salas Gunung village, Seram Island, Waru Bay, central Maluku.
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram, Manusela-Seti. 48% to 58%
lexical similarity with Liana, 46% to 50% with Benggoi, 35% to 46% with
Manusela. Most use Masiwang as second language. Christian. Survey needed.
SALEMAN (SAWAI, SELEMAN, HATUE, WAHAI) [SAU] 4,800 (1989 Loski and Loski
SIL). 5 villages (Saleman, Pasanea, Sawai, Besi, Wahai), north central
Seram, central Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern,
Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram, Sawai-Nuaulu.
Language use is vigorous except in Wahai. 64% lexical similarity with
North Nuaulu, 48% with South Nuaulu. Intelligibility testing of dialects
needed. Access by boat from Ambon. Muslim.
SAPARUA [SPR] 10,216 (1989 SIL), including 4,519 or more in Iha. Kulur,
Iha, and Siri-Sori villages on Saparua Island, and Iha, Kulur, Latu,
Hualoy, and Tomalehu villages on Seram Island, Lease Islands, central
Maluku. Also spoken by hundreds of Latu people in Kairatu village.
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram, Nunusaku, Piru Bay, East,
Seram Straits, Uliase, Hatuhaha, Saparua. Dialects: KULUR, IHA-SAPARUA,
IHA-SERAM, SIRI-SORI. Each village is a dialect. 86% to 89% lexical
similarity among dialects; 82% to 84% with Latu, 69% with Amahai, 67% with
Kamarian, 68% to 71% with Haruku, 65% with Kaibobo, 62% to 66% with
Tulehu, 54% to 62% with Luhu, 49% with Piru, 54% with Naka'ela. Needs
intelligibility testing among dialects. Access by boat. Muslim, Christian.
SAWAI (WEDA, WERE, WEDA-SAWAI) [SZW] 12,000 (1989 SIL). North Maluku,
coastal area between southern and southeastern peninsulas of Halmahera.
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern
Malayo-Polynesian, South Halmahera-West New Guinea, South Halmahera,
Southeast. Dialects: WEDA, SAWAI, KOBE. 64% lexical similarity with North
Nuaulu. Different from Saleman (Sawai). Access by sea. 25% to 50%
literate. Muslim, Christian. Bible portions 1994. Work in progress.
SEIT-KAITETU (HILA-KAITETU) [HIK] 10,171 (1987 SIL). Seit (Seith) and
Kaitetu villages, north coast of Ambon Island, central Maluku.
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram, Nunusaku, Piru Bay, West,
Asilulu. Dialects: SEIT (SEITH), KAITETU. 85% lexical similarity between
Kaitetu and Seit. 78% to 82% lexical similarity with Asilulu, 67% to 74%
with Tulehu. Language use is vigorous. Access by road. Muslim, Christian.
Survey needed.
SELARU (SALARU) [SLU] 7,000 to 9,000 (1989 Coward SIL). Tanimbar, six of
seven villages on Selaru Island, half of the village of Latdalam on
Yamdena Island, and Lingada village on Nus-Wotar Island off the west coast
of Yamdena. 8 villages. South Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian,
Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Southeast Maluku, Southern.
Dialect: KANDAR. Language use is vigorous. Slight dialect differences. Not
closely related to other nearby languages. 25% to 50% literate. Christian.
Selections 1995 Birth of Christ. Work in progress.
SELUWASAN (SELVASA, SELWASA) [SWH] 2,839, including 739 in Makatian, 2,100
in Seluwasan (1980 government report). Southwest coast of Yamdena Island,
south Maluku. Three villages: Wermatang, Batu Putih, and Marantutul.
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Southeast Maluku, Southern. Dialects: SELUWASAN,
MAKATIAN. Distinct language and culture. Makatian is quite different.
Hunters. Christian.
SEPA (TAMILOUW) [SPB] 2,600 (1989 Loski and Loski SIL). Sepa village,
Seram Island, central Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian,
Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram,
Nunusaku, Piru Bay, East. 79% lexical similarity between Sepa and
Tamilouw, 69% to 78% with Teluti, 50% with Atamanu. Used as a second
language by South Nuaulu speakers. Trade language. Survey needed.
SERILI [SVE] 328 (1980 de Jonge). Northeast Marsela Island, south Maluku.
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Babar, South, Masela-South Babar. Christian. Survey
needed.
SERUA [SRW] 2,000 (1990 SIL). Transmigration area in south central Seram
Island, central Maluku. 4 villages. (Originally Serua Island in south
central Maluku). Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Timor, Southwest Maluku, Teun-Nila-Serua, Nila-Serua.
Close to Nila. Not intelligible with Teun. Moved by the government to
Seram because of volcanic activity on their island. Survey needed.
SULA (SANANA) [SZN] 20,000 (1983 C. and B. D. Grimes SIL). North Maluku,
Sula Islands, Sulabesi Island and scattered communities on the eastern and
western ends and north coast of Mangole Island, and northeast coast of
Buru Island. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, Sula. Dialects: FAGUDU, FALAHU, FACEI
(FAC_). Vigorous language use in daily communication. Mangole is closely
related. Boat and air connections to Ternate and Ambon. Muslim.
TABARU (TOBARU) [TBY] 15,000 (1991 Kotynski SIL). North Maluku, Ibu,
Jailolo, and Oba districts. West Papuan, North Halmahera, North, Tobaru.
Dialects: ADU, NYEKU. The northern dialect is the main one. The two
dialects are inherently intelligible with each other. Access by sea from
Ternate to Ibu, Jailolo, and Oba. 25% to 50% literate. Christian.
Selections 1994 Life of Christ. Work in progress.
TALIABU (TALIABO) [TLV] 2,500 to 5,500, including 500 to 1,500 in Mangei
(1991 C. Grimes SIL). North Maluku, Taliabu Island and northwestern
Mangole, Sula Islands. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern,
Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, Sula, Taliabo. Dialects: PADANG
(SAMADA), MANANGA, MANGEI (MANGE'E, MANGE, MANG, SOBOYO, SOBOJO). Dialects
share lexical similarities in the upper 90% range. Talo, Seho, Biha, Bono
(Mbono) are place names. Access by sea and then land to isolated areas.
Language attitudes are positive. Traditional religion, Christian. Work in
progress.
TALUR (ILWAKI, ILIWAKI, GALOLENG, LIR TALO, ILMEDU) [ILW] 675 (1990 B.
Hinton SIL). Hiay, Ilputih, and Ilwaki villages in south central Wetar
Island, north of Timor Island, south Maluku. Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Timor,
Southwest Maluku, Wetar. 86% lexical similarity with Galoli on east Timor,
57% with Aputai, 52% with Tugun, 51% with Perai and Iliun. Survey needed.
TARANGAN, EAST (EAST TRANGAN, TARANGAN TIMUR) [TRE] 3,784 (1987 Maluku
Dalam Angka). East coast of Tarangan Island, south Aru Islands, and
villages in Maikor Strait (Sungai Maikor), 13 villages. South Maluku.
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Aru. 71% lexical similarity with West Tarangan. Dialect
variation needs investigation. Language use is vigorous. Christian,
Muslim. Survey needed.
TARANGAN, WEST (WEST TRANGAN, TARANGAN BARAT) [TXN] 6,478 (Maluku Dalam
Angka); largest language in the Aru Islands. West coast of Tarangan
Island, southern Aru Islands, south Maluku. Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Aru.
Dialects: SOUTHWESTERN TARANGAN, NORTH CENTRAL TARANGAN. Language use is
vigorous. 2 sharply distinct dialect groups, with minor variation within
them. 70% lexical similarity with East Tarangan and Wokam. 60% to 70%
literate. Trade language of Aru Islands, especially in the south.
Christian, Muslim. Work in progress.
TELA-MASBUAR (TELA'A, MASBUAR-TELA) [TVM] 1,050 (1990 SIL). Villages of
Tela and Masbuar, southwest Babar Island, south Maluku. Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Babar,
South, Southwest Babar. Survey needed.
TELUTI (TALUTI, TIHORU, TEHORU, SILEN, WOLU) [TLT] 17,000 (1989 Loski and
Loski SIL). Central Maluku, south Seram Island, Teluti Bay. Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central
Maluku, East, Seram, Nunusaku, Piru Bay, East. Dialects: WEST TELUTI
(HAYA, WOLU, TEHORU, TEHUA), LAHA SERANI. 74% to 89% lexical similarity
among dialects, 69% to 78% with Sepa, 50% with Atamanu. Used as second
language by many Manusela and Seti speakers in the area. Trade language.
Mostly Muslim, some Christian.
TEOR (TIO'OR) [TEV] 1,100 (1986 SIL). Teor and Ut islands, South Maluku.
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Teor-Kur. Dialects: GAUR KRISTEN, UT. 79% lexical
similarity between Gaur Kristen and Ut, 71% to 83% with Kur, 41% with
Watubela, 38% with Geser. Speakers say they understand Kur. Muslim, some
Christian. Survey needed.
TERNATE [TFT] 42,000 native speakers and 20,000 or more second language
users (1981 Wurm and Hattori). North Maluku, islands of Ternate, Kayoa,
Bacan, Obi, and coastal communities on western north Halmahera. Lingua
franca in northern and northeastern Halmahera. West Papuan, North
Halmahera, South. Vigorous language use in daily communication. Close to
Tidore; intelligibility testing is needed. Good access by sea, land, air.
25% to 50% literate. Trade language. Muslim.
TERNATE_O (TERNATENYO) [TMG] North Maluku, Ternate Island, west of
Halmahera Island. Varieties of Portuguese creole were also spoken in Banda
and Ambon. Creole, Portuguese based. Spanish lexification. Historical
relationship with Chavacano and dialects, which are still spoken in the
Philippines. See also Timor Pidgin in Nusa Tenggara and Indo-Portuguese in
Sri Lanka. Extinct.
TE'UN [TVE] 1,200 (1990 SIL). Transmigration area in south central Seram
Island, central Maluku. 4 villages. (Originally Teun Island in south
central Maluku). Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Timor, Southwest Maluku, Teun-Nila-Serua, Teun. Moved
by the government because of volcanic activity on their island. Survey
needed.
TIDORE [TVO] 26,000 native speakers, 20,000 or more second language users
(1981 Wurm and Hattori). North Maluku, islands of Tidore, Maitara, Mare,
northern half of Moti, and some areas of west coast of Halmahera. West
Papuan, North Halmahera, South. Close to Ternate; intelligibility testing
is needed. Language attitudes are positive. Good access by sea from
Ternate. 25% to 50% literate. Muslim. Work in progress.
TOBELO [TLB] 20,000 to 25,000 (1987 SIL). North Maluku, north Halmahera,
northern half of Morotai, all coastal areas of Kao Bay and inland, Patani,
Weda, Gane, Bacan, Obi, Ambon, Raja Ampat islands of Irian Jaya. West
Papuan, North Halmahera, North, Tobelo. Dialects: DODINGA, BO_NG, TOBELO
(HELEWORURU). Access by road from Tobelo city, by sea from Ternate or
Daruba to Tobelo, by air to Kao or Galela. Language attitudes are
positive. Intelligibility testing is needed with Tugutil. 25% to 50%
literate. Dictionary. Christian. NT 1993.
TUGUN (TUTUNOHAN, MAHUAN) [TZN] 1,200 or more (1990 Hinton SIL). Wetar
Island, north of Timor, south Maluku; Mahuan, Masapun, Tomliapat, Ilpokil,
Kahailin, Ilway, Arwala villages, on the southeast end of Wetar.
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Timor, Southwest Maluku, Wetar. Dialect: ARWALA. 76%
lexical similarity with Perai, 74% with Aputai, 73% with Iliun, 52% with
Talur. There are word taboos. 15% to 25% literate. Work in progress.
TUGUTIL [TUJ] 1,000 to 3,000 (1984 C. and B. D. Grimes SIL). North Maluku,
north Halmahera, inland around Kusuri, inland in Kecamatan Tobelo, around
Taboulamo in Kecamatan Kao, in the pass between Lolobata and Buli in
Kecamatan Wasilei, near Dodaga, and near Teluk Lili. West Papuan, North
Halmahera, North, Tobelo. Dialects: TELUK LILI, KUSURI. A group of
primitive peoples who have minimal contact with modern civilization.
Access by sea and then land to isolated areas. Language attitudes are
positive. Possibly several dialects separated by large distances.
Intelligibility with Tobelo dialects is inadequate. 5% to 15% literate.
Traditional religion, Christian. Work in progress.
TULEHU (NORTHEAST AMBON) [TLU] 18,843 (1987 SIL). 4 villages on the coast
of northeast Ambon Island, central Maluku. Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central
Maluku, East, Seram, Nunusaku, Piru Bay, East, Seram Straits, Ambon.
Dialects: TULEHU, LIANG, TENGAH-TENGAH, TIAL. 84% to 90% lexical
similarity among dialects. Each dialect is in a separate village. Eastern
end of Ambon dialect chain. 74% to 82% lexical similarity with Hitu, 72%
to 76% with Haruku. Language use is vigorous. Access by road, ferry, boat.
Muslim, Christian. Survey needed.
UJIR (UDJIR) [UDJ] 975 (1995 J. Hughes). 2 villages, Ujir on Ujir Island
and Samang on the end of western peninsula on Wokam Island, in northwest
Aru Islands, south Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian,
Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Aru. 75% lexical similarity
with Kola in north Aru, and slightly less with Kulaha on the west coast of
Kola Island. Language use is declining in Ujir because of the influence of
Malay used by an increasing number of outsiders. Use is reported to be
less in Samang than in Ujir. Muslim.
WAIOLI (WAJOLI, WAYOLI) [WLI] 3,000 (1987 Voorhoeve and Visser). North
Halmahera, between Sahu and Ibu languages, north Maluku. West Papuan,
North Halmahera, North, Sahu. 81% lexical similarity with Gamkonora.
Intelligibility testing needed with all languages in Sahu subgroup. Access
by sea, or by land from Jailolo. Christian, Muslim. Survey needed.
WATUBELA (SNABI WATUBELA, KASIUI, KESUI, KASUI, WESI, ESIRIUN, MATABELLO)
[WAH] 4,000 (1990 R. Loski SIL). Watubela Islands, east central Maluku,
north of Kur Island. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern,
Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Banda-Geser, Geser-Gorom.
Dialects: TAMHER TIMUR, SULMELANG. 77% lexical similarity between
dialects, 51% to 61% with Geser-Gorom, 41% with Teor and Kur, 37% with
Bobot, 34% with Masiwang. Many claim to use Geser-Gorom as second
language. Muslim, some Christian. Survey needed.
WEMALE, NORTH [WEO] 4,929 (1982). Spread along the north coast of Taniwel
District, east of Taniwel, and in the westernmost part of East Seram
District, 24 villages. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern,
Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram, Nunusaku, Three
Rivers, Wemale. Dialects: HORALE, KASIEH, UWENPANTAI. Language use is
vigorous. Language used in church. There may be three dialects. Kawe may
be a dialect. Lexical similarity between east and central dialects is 80%,
72% with South Wemale, 59% with Hulung. Access by boat from Ambon.
Christian, Muslim (Kanikeh village).
WEMALE, SOUTH (TALA, HONITETU) [TLW] 3,726 (1987 SIL). Central Maluku,
west Seram, 15 villages; 13 in Kairatu, mainly in the interior, and two
westernmost coastal villages of Amahai District. Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central
Maluku, East, Seram, Nunusaku, Three Rivers, Wemale. Language use is
vigorous. Dialect chain between Horale, Kasieh, Uwenpantai, and Honitetu.
Kawe may be a dialect. Lexical similarity between Horale and Kasieh, and
between Uwenpantai and Honitetu is 80%, 72% with North Wemale, 66% with
Hulung, 47% with Atamanu. Access by boat. Christian.
YALAHATAN (ATAMANU, JAHALATAN, JAHALATANE, AWAIYA) [JAL] 800, including
400 in each village (1991 SIL). West Seram, villages of Yalahatan and
Haruru, central Maluku. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern,
Central Malayo-Polynesian, Central Maluku, East, Seram, Nunusaku, Three
Rivers. Slight dialect differences reported between the two villages. 50%
to 52% lexical similarity with Sepa, 49% to 50% with Teluti. Speakers are
not familiar with the name 'Atamanu'. 15% to 25% literate. Work in
progress.
YAMDENA (JAMDENA, JAMDEN) [JMD] 25,000 active speakers out of an ethnic
group of 35,000 to 40,000 (1991 T. Mettler SIL). Southeast Maluku, eastern
coast of Yamdena, Adaut village on northern tip of Selaru, and one of the
two languages spoken in Latdalam village, southwest Yamdena. 35 villages.
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Central
Malayo-Polynesian, Southeast Maluku, Kei-Tanimbar, Yamdena. Dialects:
NORTH YAMDENA, SOUTH YAMDENA. Language use is vigorous, except for some
villages, especially in the north. Speakers' second language is Ambonese
Malay. Dialect chaining from north to south with 90% lexical similarity
between the extremes, but with considerable morphological and phonological
differences. The southern dialect is more prestigious. 47% lexical
similarity with Fordata. 80% literate. Dictionary. Grammar. Christian (RC,
Protestant). Selections 1993. Work in progress.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Part of the Ethnologue, 13th Edition, Barbara F. Grimes, Editor.
Copyright 1996, Summer Institute of Linguistics, Inc. All rights reserved.
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