English Use and Western Cultural Interference in Minangkabau Wedding Ceremony in Padang City

Almost every ethnic group in the world has a culture that distinguishes it from other ethnic groups. This study investigates the influence of Western culture in today’ Minangkabau wedding ceremony by observing the use of English words, phrases and cultural terms used in various elements of Minangkabau wedding ceremony in Padang City. The study is to find the implication of the use the expressions to the Minangkabau values and culture from the anthropological, linguistic perspective. The data was collected by visiting or attending some wedding parties held in some hotels and buildings in the city, observing 50 wedding invitations, observing the uploaded photos of wedding ceremonies on Instagram or Facebook, collecting various ornaments and properties used in the ceremony. Some interviews were conducted to obtain first-hand information and opinion from parents, brides and brooms, quests, and people working in the printing houses. The study reveals that thee adoption of the English expressions, intentionally or unintentionally, consciously or unconsciously, has to some degree showed some influences of the Western and Christian belief or practices in the Minangkabau wedding tradition, at least those held in the Padang city. In negative result of language contact, the adoption of the English language in the element of Minangkabau wedding may mean the negligence of Minangkabau people to its tradition and religion.