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Javanese speakers often face unique challenges in mastering English phonetic transcription due to phonological gaps between the two languages. This study examines howabsent sounds (e.g., /v/, /θ/) and vowel mergers in Javanese lead to systematic errors, such assubstituting “think” [θɪŋk] with “tink” [tɪŋk] or confusing “ship” [ʃɪp] and “sheep” [ʃiːp]. Thesemispronunciations, rooted in native language interference, result in workplacemiscommunication and academic disadvantages. Through acoustic analysis of Javaneseaccented English speakers, this research identifies high error phonemes and prosodic patterns(e.g., flattened intonation and syllable time rhythm). A pedagogical intervention is proposed,combining minimal pair drills (e.g., “van” vs. “fan”), visual feedback via speech software, andstress timing exercises. Preliminary results from 20 participants show a 40% improvement in/v/ and /θ/ accuracy after 8 weeks of training. The study highlights the role of culturally adaptedtools, such as using Indonesian-English loanwords like “video” (pronounced [vidio] inIndonesian) to teach schwa [ə]. By addressing these phonetic barriers, the intervention aims toempower Javanese learners to navigate global communication confidently, while advocatingfor inclusive language policies in multilingual education systems. This work bridges theoreticalphonetics and real-world applications, offering scalable solutions for non-native Englishspeakers worldwide.

Javanese, Phonetic, /v/, /θ/