What Do Indonesians Really Need from Language Technology? A Nationwide Survey
Abstract: There is an emerging effort to develop NLP for Indonesia’s 700+ local languages, but progress remains costly due to the need for direct engagement with native speakers. However, it is unclear what these language communities truly need from language technology. To address this, we conduct a nationwide survey to assess the actual needs of native speakers in Indonesia. Our findings indicate that addressing language barriers—particularly through machine translation and information retrieval—is the most critical priority. Although there is strong enthusiasm for advancements in language technology, concerns around privacy, bias, and the use of public data for AI training highlight the need for greater transparency and clear communication to support broader AI adoption.
Paper Type: Long
Research Area: Human-Centered NLP
Research Area Keywords: values and culture,human-centered evaluation
Contribution Types: Data analysis, Surveys
Languages Studied: Indonesian,Javanese,Sunda,Bugis,Minangkabau,Bali,Kaili Ledo,Musi,Madura,Banjar,Toraja-sadan,Lamaholot,Malay-manado,Ngaju,Chinese-mandarin,Mandar,Kendayan,Moma,Nias,Malay-kupang,Aceh,Sasak,Malay,Malay-jambi,Batak simalungun,Batak toba,Hawu,Saluan,Bima,Lampung nyo,Sumbawa,Tolaki,Malay-central,Tetun,Uab meto,Manggarai,Biak,Muna,Kambera,Tukang besi south,Li'o,Batak karo,Moronene,Pamona,Konjo-coastal,Osing,Padoe,Bahau,Sika,Betawi,Batak mandailing,Ende,Batak alas-kluet,Gayo,Bangka,Malay-tenggarong kutai,Bakati',Tii,Gorontalo,Sentani,Nalca,Ekari,Ketengban,Ansus,Diuwe,Rejang,Mamuju,Cia-cia,Hakka,Banggai,Andio
Submission Number: 4704
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