Language Expert Called 'Anjay' Cannot Be Defined As Bullying

Illustration (Pixabay)

JAKARTA - The use of "Anjay" as a language of conversation (prokem) is being discussed. The National Commission for Child Protection (Komnas PA) considers the use of the word "anjay" to contain elements of violence.

However, the linguist from Jakarta State University, Krisanjaya, considers that not all "anjay" utterances are classified as forms of verbal violence that lead to bullying.

This is because, said Krisanjaya, the interpretation of the word "Anjay" must be seen in the contextual meaning of the person who speaks the word.

"Regarding the word 'anjay' classified as verbal violence, it must be seen from its contextual meaning," Krisanjaya said when contacted by VOI, Monday, August 31.

He explained that the formation of the word "anjay" came from a reference to the word "dog" which is an animal. In a variety of conversations, nowadays the word "dog" can be used as a curse or a form of irritation.

"If the contextual meaning of the word" Anjay "means an insult or insult, then it can be classified as verbal violence against someone," he said.

However, there is another form of interpretation of the use of the word "anjay". Krisanjaya word, "anjay" can be used as a word of affirmation in a sentence that someone utters.

"If the use of the word is used as self-affirmation, then it is not classified as a word with verbal abuse content. For example, in the sentence, 'Anjay, I forgot to bring my helmet'," explained Krisanjaya.

As is well known, Komnas PA made a scene in the social media scene because it asked the public to no longer use the word "Anjay" and said the use of the word could potentially be criminal.

According to the Chairperson of the National Commission for Child Protection Arist Merdeka Sirait, the popular word "anjay" can lead to a crime because it becomes a form of violence or bullying.

"If the term 'anjay' contains elements of violence and degrading someone's dignity is a form of violence or bullying, it can be punished, both used in a joking manner and form. However, if the elements and definitions of violence are fulfilled in accordance with the provisions of Law No. 35/2014 about Child Protection, it is verbal abuse, "Arist said.

Arist explained that the use of the word "anjay" must be seen from various points of view. He said, if anjay is used as a pronoun for admiration in one event, then there is no element of bullying because it does not cause offense, hurt feelings, and harm even though it is interpreted as a designation of an animal.

It's just a different story when this "Anjay" becomes a term for someone, especially if that person is not known and is pronounced by a more mature person.

"The term is a form of verbal abuse and can be reported as a criminal act. Therefore, the perspective must be seen because the use of the term 'anjay' is viral among social media users and children," he added.