Alternate Names: Helon, Kupang, Semau
Dialects: Funai (Land Helong), Helong Darat (Bolok), Helong Pulau (Island Helong, Semau).
Genealogy:
Demographics: 14,000 (Grimes et al. 1997). Ethnic population: 15,000.
Language Use: Helong Darat shifting to Kupang Malay [mkn]. Funai dialect endangered through intermarriage and urban contact. Home, community, traditional ceremonies. Also use Dengka [dnk], Dhao [nfa], Hawu [hvn], Indonesian [ind], Kupang Malay [mkn], Uab Meto [aoz].
Language Development: Dictionary. NT: 2011.
Typology: Unlike many surrounding languages, does not inflect V-initial verb roots for person or number; has long and short vowels; glottal stop, metathesis.
Writing System: Latin
Nation of Origin: Indonesia
Other Comments: Christian, traditional religion.