Elseng

A language of Indonesia

ISO 639: mrf
Alternate Names: Djanggu, Janggu, Sawa, Tabu, “Morwap” (pej.)
Population: 300 (Foley 2018b).
Location:: Papua province: Jayapura and Keerom regencies, Abepura, Arso, Kemtuk Gresi, and Senggi sub-districts, Lake Sentani area, south, southwest.
Language Status: 6b (Threatened).
Classification: Language isolate
Dialects: None known. Not closely related to any other language.
Typology: SOV; noun head initial, except for possessives; 9 consonants and 6 vowels; inclusive/exclusive pronouns.
Language Use: Religious services. Some young people, all adults. Also use Indonesian [ind], but with minimal ability.
Language Resources: OLAC resources in and about Elseng
Writing: Unwritten [Qaax].
Other Comments: Almost no outside influence. ‘Morwap’ is vigorously rejected as a language name by speakers and government officials. Christian, traditional religion.

Location: Papua province: Jayapura and Keerom regencies, Abepura, Arso, Kemtuk Gresi, and Senggi sub-districts, Lake Sentani area, south, southwest.