Batak languages

Batak languages are a group of related Austronesian languages spoken primarily by the Batak people in North Sumatra, Indonesia. They consist of several distinct dialects, including Toba, Karo, Simalungun, Angkola, and Mandailing, each with unique features but sharing a common cultural and linguistic heritage. These languages use Latin script today but historically had their own scripts. They play a vital role in preserving Batak cultural identity, traditions, and oral literature. While many Batak people speak Indonesian as a national language, the Batak languages remain important for community cohesion and cultural expression.