THE ROLE OF THE MOTHER TONGUE IN PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT AND CULTURAL CONTINUITY

Abstrak

The mother tongue is a fundamental element in the development of an individual and the preservation of national culture. It is the first language a person learns and the primary medium through which thoughts, emotions, and values are expressed. In the era of globalization, foreign languages have become essential for communication and professional growth, yet this has led to a gradual decline in the use of native languages among younger generations. This article examines the importance of the mother tongue in shaping identity, education, emotional development, and social cohesion. It also analyzes modern challenges faced by native languages and emphasizes the role of youth and society in preserving linguistic heritage