Totoli language: could it be extinct?

This study examines the decline of the Totoli language and its contributing factors. Data from 120 respondents and 15 informants, was gathered through surveys, interviews, and observations. With SPSS analysis, show there is a Totoli language shift between generations, with younger people favoring Manado Malay and Indonesian, especially in the education domain, governance, and commerce. This shift extends to religious practices, social interactions, and family dynamics, where younger generations predominantly use Manado Malay, while older speakers still use Totoli but adjust depending on their interlocutor. These findings indicate that Totoli is at risk of extinction but also a point to revitalization opportunities. Key strategies include strengthening intergenerational language transmission, fostering community pride, and addressing the impact of interethnic marriages. The research underscores the importance of local language policies to support Totoli’s survival in various domains.