LIMITED LINGUISTIC COMPETENCE AND INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATION BARRIERS IN THE BUKIT LAWANG TOURISM DESTINATION
Abstract
This study aims to analyze limited English proficiency as a barrier to intercultural communication between local communities and international tourists in the Bukit Lawang tourism area, Bahorok District, Langkat Regency. As an international tourism destination that brings together individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, effective communication is essential for both social interaction and tourism service delivery. This study employed a descriptive qualitative approach. Data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation involving local tourism service providers, tour guides, and visitors. The findings reveal four major forms of limited linguistic competence that hinder intercultural communication: (1) limited English proficiency among local tourism service providers; (2) difficulties in understanding international tourists due to differences in accents, speaking speed, and vocabulary; (3) differences in intercultural communication styles that affect the delivery and interpretation of information; and (4) limited communication skills that adversely affect the quality of tourism services. To overcome these barriers, local communities and international tourists adopted four communication adaptation strategies: using simplified English, employing nonverbal communication, utilizing communication technologies such as Google Translate, and seeking assistance from third parties with stronger English-language competence. The study concludes that limited linguistic competence remains a significant challenge to intercultural communication in Bukit Lawang. Nevertheless, its effects can be minimized through effective communication adaptation strategies. Therefore, there is a need to strengthen tourism-oriented English proficiency, improve intercultural communication skills, and optimize the use of communication technologies to enhance tourism service quality and reinforce Bukit Lawang’s image as an international tourism destination.
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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.30829/jai.v15i4.31237
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