Lanskap Linguistik Trilingual: Bahasa Indonesia, Inggris, dan Korea pada Penanda Publik Bandara Hang Nadim Batam

Abstract

This study examines the linguistic landscape of public signage at Hang Nadim International Airport in Batam, which typically features three languages simultaneously: Indonesian, English, and Korean. The study aims to (1) map the patterns of language use on public signage, (2) analyze the status and functions of these three languages, and (3) explain the factors underlying their presence, particularly that of the Korean language. This study employs a descriptive qualitative approach, utilizing data consisting of nine public signifiers collected and analyzed online from Padang, supplemented by the personal experiences of the researcher, who resides in Batam. The data were analyzed using the theory of informative and symbolic functions, the concept of code preference, and the distinction between top-down and bottom-up signifiers. The research findings reveal a highly consistent language hierarchy, in which Indonesian is always given priority through its top position, largest size, and most striking color, followed by English, with Korean in the most subordinate position. This trilingualism is systematic and top-down in nature, extending even to spaces with Islamic cultural characteristics such as prayer rooms, while commercial signage does not follow this pattern. The presence of the Korean language is not determined by geographical proximity, but rather by a partnership with Incheon International Airport regarding airport management. The study concludes that the presence of a language on visual signage at international gates is driven by economic power and institutional policies, rather than demographics or local identity alone.