School of Compassion

As the biggest Muslim society in the world, Indonesia hosts over 25,000 Islamic boarding schools, housing more than 4 million students. This film is set in one of the largest traditional Islamic boarding schools in Cirebon, West Java, Indonesia, called Pondok Kebon Jambu -- one of the very few which runs by a woman. Indonesia experiences changes in recent years -- more people would criticize others based on shallow understandings of the Islam. A young teacher, Diding, is determined to teach proper and profound understanding of Islam that values "harmony and co-existence." Dika, a senior student who is responsible for the well-being of his roommates, gives lessons on Islamic teachings to little kids as a part of his internship. Bibah is an art teacher who has lived in the school for 7 years. Her parents disapprove of her interest in music, but the school values her talents and supports her choice to improve her skills and to continue her education further. Through intimate moments with these captivating young people, the film cuts through cultural and religious barriers, and offers an opportunity for the audience to get acquainted with Islamic teachings and the world of Islam in changing society.