This rare observational documentary set in West Java takes us inside one of over 25,000 Pesantren, traditional Islamic boarding schools, in Indonesia, the country with the largest Muslim population in the world. Refreshingly, the film defies cultural and religious stereotypes while also delighting with humor and beautiful, spiritual music.
Indonesian director Siregar follows two young teachers, Diding and Bibah, as well as two students, Dika and Dul Yani, while also featuring the inspiring female director of the school. The film conveys the value of the Pesantren to continue the centuries old tradition rooted in peaceful religious teachings that encourage critical interpretations of the scriptures, in the context of declining practice. Diding states: “sixty percent of our new students can´t read the Quran”. The teachings emphasize respect, compassion and mutual understanding between girls and boys (taught separately at the school) as well as acceptance of all regardless of their beliefs.