The Linguistic Landscape of National Shipping Vessels (PELNI) in Indonesia

Risman Iye; Erniati; Dian B.; Fithriyah Inda Nur Abida

doi:10.26499/li.v44i2.991

Authors

Risman Iye Universitas Iqra Buru
Erniati Reservation of Language and Literature, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN)
Dian B. Universitas Muhammadiyah Buton
Fithriyah Inda Nur Abida Universitas Negeri Surabaya

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.26499/li.v44i2.991

Keywords:

maritime signage, multilingual communication, maritime governance

Abstract

This study investigates the linguistic landscape of the Indonesian National Shipping Company (PELNI) vessels, focusing on signage related to navigation, facilities, safety, and behavioral regulation. Data were collected through systematic documentation of room labels, prohibition signs, facility information, safety instructions, and general notices, and were supplemented by participatory observation and informal interviews with passengers and crew. The analysis reveals that the linguistic landscape is dominated by top-down signage produced by institutional authorities, with Indonesian consistently occupying the primary position, while English appears selectively as a supplementary language. Drawing on Landry and Bourhis’s (1997) framework, the study demonstrates that signage on PELNI ships serves both informational and symbolic functions: guiding spatial navigation and ensuring passenger safety, while simultaneously communicating institutional authority and reinforcing national identity. The results indicate that multilingual signage effectively coordinates safety procedures and administrative compliance, establishing the ship as a site of state authority. Ultimately, this research clarifies how the physical arrangement of signs on the Surabaya-Jayapura route manages passenger movement and enforces institutional rules within a confined maritime setting.

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