Alternate Names: Batavi, Batawi, Betawi Malay, Jakarta Malay, Melayu Jakarte
Dialects: None known. A Malay-based creole distinct from both Indonesian , and other Malay-based pidgins and creoles. It evolved mid-19th century. Unique phonological, morphological, and lexical traits. Influences from Peranakan Indonesian , and Bali ,. Often not intelligible to Indonesian speakers not familiar with it (1989 R. Allen).
Genealogy:
Demographics: 5,000,000 (2000 census). Population count imprecise due to vague ethnic and linguistic definition of ‘Betawi’.
Language Use: Functions as a Low variety in a diglossic situation, but has covert prestige when used by the upper class.
Language Development: Poetry. Radio programs. Films. TV. Grammar. Bible portions.
Nation of Origin: Indonesia
Other Comments: Muslim.