Perception of English in relation to communication and identity

The increasing number of the so-called non-native English users has resulted in their views of English to be crucial. This qualitative study of thirty-two Indonesian lecturers, teachers, and students is aimed at revealing perceptions of English in relation to communication, culture, and national as well as religious identities. The findings reveal various perceptions of the language. Some references to Caucasians as potential interlocutors are found even though the participants believe that English has been used among ‘non-native’ speakers and that the relationship between English and the West is diminishing. The participants also view English as either not related or positively related to their national, religious, and ethnic identities. Overall, there is a demand for accentuating English in Indonesia with the local cultures.