Kao

A language of Indonesia

ISO 639: kax
Alternate Names: Ka’u, Kau
Population: 400 (2000).
Location:: North Maluku province: Halmahera Utara regency; north Halmahera island on Kao bay area near Kao river mouth.
Language Status: 8a (Moribund).
Classification: West Papuan, North Halmahera, Sahu
Dialects: Could be a marginal dialect of Pagu [pgu], but relates uniquely to other languages in Kao River subbranch.
Language Use: Ethnic group membership expressed by knowing the language. Older adults only. Shifted to Indonesian [ind].
Language Development: Literacy rate in L2: 50%–75%.
Language Resources: OLAC resources in and about Kao
Writing: Unwritten [Qaax].
Other Comments: Muslim.

Location: North Maluku province: Halmahera Utara regency; north Halmahera island on Kao bay area near Kao river mouth.