Samarinda — Efforts to keep the Kutai language alive amidst the tide of modernization have received a boost. Through the KRIS 2025 research collaboration between the Samarinda State Agricultural Polytechnic (Politani Samarinda) and the East Kalimantan Regional Research and Innovation Agency (BRIDA), an artificial intelligence (AI)-based application called ETAM-EDU was born. This application is specifically designed as a more engaging learning medium for the Kutai language and is closer to the habits of the digital generation.
ETAM-EDU offers a different way of learning. No longer relying on books or memorization, it instead uses word-building games, letter puzzles, a digital Kutai-Indonesian dictionary, and even an intelligent chatbot that can be spoken to directly in the local language. With a colorful interface and animated characters dressed in traditional attire, this application encourages children to learn while playing without getting bored.
The Head of the Research and Community Service Center (P3KM) of Politani Samarinda, Andi Lisnawati, SP., M.Sc., stated that the application created by the TRPL Politani Samarinda lecturer team is a solution and answer to concerns about the declining use of the Kutai language among young people. According to her, language learning media must keep up with the times. "If we want regional languages to survive, they must be present on the devices children use every day," she said.
Full support came from the Head of BRIDA East Kalimantan, Dr. M. Ir. H. Fitriansyah, S.T., M.M. He emphasized that preserving regional languages is an essential part of preserving East Kalimantan's cultural identity. In his statement, he said, "The Kutai language should not just be a historical narrative. ETAM-EDU provides a new space to keep it alive amidst changing times."
The application also features a chatbot called ETAM-EDU, a virtual character that can answer questions about vocabulary, culture, and casual conversation. Its initial greeting is in Kutai, adding a warm local feel and fostering a close relationship with users. The AI technology used allows ETAM to respond to questions in a natural and educational manner.
The launch of ETAM-EDU marks a significant milestone for East Kalimantan. Amidst the influx of foreign cultural influences, the Kutai language has a new platform that is more relevant to children and adolescents. With easy access via smartphone, the application is expected to be utilized in schools to support local content learning.
The research team involved in developing this application consists of Reza Andrea, Syafei Karim, Fajar Ramadhani, Dr. Andi Lisnawati, and Dr. H. Nursobah, with the full support of BRIDA Kaltim. Going forward, the team plans to expand features such as automated voice, speech recognition, and the addition of vocabulary and folklore collections to make learning richer and more interactive.
Through this innovation, Politani Samarinda and BRIDA Kaltim hope to reconnect the younger generation with their native language. ETAM-EDU is proof that technology can be a vital ally in preserving cultural heritage and preventing it from being lost over time.
ETAM-EDU offers a different way of learning. No longer relying on books or memorization, it instead uses word-building games, letter puzzles, a digital Kutai-Indonesian dictionary, and even an intelligent chatbot that can be spoken to directly in the local language. With a colorful interface and animated characters dressed in traditional attire, this application encourages children to learn while playing without getting bored.
The Head of the Research and Community Service Center (P3KM) of Politani Samarinda, Andi Lisnawati, SP., M.Sc., stated that the application created by the TRPL Politani Samarinda lecturer team is a solution and answer to concerns about the declining use of the Kutai language among young people. According to her, language learning media must keep up with the times. "If we want regional languages to survive, they must be present on the devices children use every day," she said.
Full support came from the Head of BRIDA East Kalimantan, Dr. M. Ir. H. Fitriansyah, S.T., M.M. He emphasized that preserving regional languages is an essential part of preserving East Kalimantan's cultural identity. In his statement, he said, "The Kutai language should not just be a historical narrative. ETAM-EDU provides a new space to keep it alive amidst changing times."
The application also features a chatbot called ETAM-EDU, a virtual character that can answer questions about vocabulary, culture, and casual conversation. Its initial greeting is in Kutai, adding a warm local feel and fostering a close relationship with users. The AI technology used allows ETAM to respond to questions in a natural and educational manner.
The launch of ETAM-EDU marks a significant milestone for East Kalimantan. Amidst the influx of foreign cultural influences, the Kutai language has a new platform that is more relevant to children and adolescents. With easy access via smartphone, the application is expected to be utilized in schools to support local content learning.
The research team involved in developing this application consists of Reza Andrea, Syafei Karim, Fajar Ramadhani, Dr. Andi Lisnawati, and Dr. H. Nursobah, with the full support of BRIDA Kaltim. Going forward, the team plans to expand features such as automated voice, speech recognition, and the addition of vocabulary and folklore collections to make learning richer and more interactive.
Through this innovation, Politani Samarinda and BRIDA Kaltim hope to reconnect the younger generation with their native language. ETAM-EDU is proof that technology can be a vital ally in preserving cultural heritage and preventing it from being lost over time.
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