Translanguaging as a mechanism of social harmonization in multilingual papua: the case of the Tobati community

This study examines translanguaging as a mechanism for social harmonization in the multiethnic Tobati community of Jayapura, Papua. Within a sociocultural context characterized by ethnic and linguistic diversity, translanguaging functions not only as a communicative resource but also as a culturally embedded practice for regulating collective emotions, mitigating potential tension, and transmitting values of linguistic tolerance across generations. Using a qualitative approach with an intrinsic case study design involving participants, including traditional leaders, youth, homemakers, and other community members, data were collected through interviews, participant observation, and photographic documentation. Thematic analysis identified three interconnected roles of translanguaging: regulating collective emotions in socially sensitive interactions, facilitating linguistic adjustment to mitigate potential tension, and supporting the intergenerational transmission of linguistic tolerance. These findings position translanguaging as a context-sensitive social practice through which multilingual speakers negotiate difference, maintain inclusive interethnic relations, and support social harmony. The study contributes to sociolinguistic and Cultural Discourse Studies by demonstrating how everyday multilingual practices are shaped by local cultural values and relational norms. The findings also offer implications for multilingual education, language policy, and community-based approaches to sustaining social harmony in culturally diverse settings.