Javanese

Pangeran Alit — in Javanese.

Javanese (ꦧꦱꦗꦮ / Basa Jawa) is a language spoken by approximately 98 million people in Indonesia, primarily on the central and eastern parts of Java island. It is part of the Malayo-Polinesian language family and is closely related to Sundanese, Madurese, and Balinese.

Javanese has a complex system of grammar and syntax, with a variety of verb forms, tenses, and affixes used to indicate meaning. The language is written using the Javanese script (a writing system that is derived from the ancient Brahmi script), Jawi, or latin.

Javanese is known for its use of a hierarchical system of speech levels, in which different levels of formality and respect are expressed through the use of different words and expressions.

Despite its importance in Indonesian culture, Javanese is considered a minority language and is not widely spoken outside of Java. Most speakers of Javanese also speak Indonesian for official and commercial purposes as well as a means to communicate with non-Javanese-speaking Indonesians.