The Coat of Arms Meaning Represented in West Sulawesi Government Province Logo (A Semantic of Semiotics Study)

Abstract

This research aimed to reveal the significance meaning of the West Sulawesi Provincial Government's logo through the lens of Charles Sanders Peirce's semiotic theory and to examine the motto "Mellete Diatonganan" using Ferdinand de Saussure's linguistic framework. This research used descriptive qualitative method, and it focused on the symbolic representation of the West Sulawesi Government's coat of arms. Data collection techniques included observation, interviews, recordings, and note-taking, with a particular emphasis on the symbols used by the West Sulawesi Government and the languages spoken by informants, including the Mandarist language. The result of this research reveal that the West Sulawesi Provincial Government logo is a multifaceted sign that can be dissected through Peirce’s approach, featuring elements such as a stylized traditional Mandar house encircled with the province's name in both Indonesian and English. This logo functions as an icon, index, and symbol, and is analyzed in terms of Peirce's abduction, the three grades of clarity, and interpretants. It prompts viewers to infer the values and priorities of the West Sulawesi Government, indicating its dedication to preserving and promoting local cultural heritage. Additionally, the motto "Mellete Diatonganan" emerges as a profound symbol reflecting the cultural heritage and values of the province. Using Saussure's methodology, the research offers a deeper insight into the motto's meaning and its impact on shaping the province's identity and values.