Promised Hearts (2025) Movie Script
1
[gentle, joyful music playing]
[child laughing]
[footsteps running]
[child 1] Catch it, catch it!
-Yay!
-[child 2] Yay!
[child 1] Come play with us!
[children laugh]
[child 1] Look, there's Niyala!
[giggling]
-Don't you wanna play with us?
-No.
-I have to take care of my mother.
-Okay.
This is for you.
That's nice!
You're welcome. See ya!
Okay, let's play!
-[child 1] My turn, my turn!
-[child 3] Watch this!
[gentle music continues]
[cries out] Ah!
-[child 4 laughs] You missed!
-[child 3] Hey!
-Get off!
-Ow!
-You're in for it.
-Leave her alone.
-What do you care?
-[grunts]
[Niyala] Faiq, Roger! Please stop!
Stop! Stop fighting.
-Come on, stop. Please.
-[woman] It's the boys, they're fighting.
[Niyala] Stop, Roger, you'll hurt him.
Hey, boss, is that Roger fighting?
[woman] Break it up, you boys.
Stop this right now.
The two of you, stop it.
[man 1] Hey, hey, hey!
Whoa, whoa, whoa. Excuse me, ladies.
Stop, stop, stop! Hey!
What do you guys think you're doing?
What's going on?
-That boy. He's always fighting.
-[man 2] You go home.
-Hasan!
-[man 1] Yes, sir.
-Niyala, are you okay?
-Yes, I'm just fine.
Look. You've hurt your arm.
-It'll be all right.
-Just hang on.
Ah! I see you're well-equipped.
Of course,
I'm the little doctor in school.
-Niyala! Niyala! It's Mom.
-[Niyala] Mom?
[somber music playing]
[woman 1] Niyala. Herman.
Come here, honey. Let's go.
[woman 2 sighs]
-[groaning]
-[Niyala, sobbing] Mom!
[crying]
[mother wheezing]
[weakly] Herman
[groans] Niyala
[moans softly]
You must pursue your dreams.
-Your dreams.
-[Niyala whimpers]
[mother sighing]
There is no God but Allah.
-[sighing]
-[Niyala sobbing]
[moaning softly]
[Niyala sobbing]
[mother sighs]
[Niyala sobs]
Oh, Mother!
[man] We belong to Allah,
and to Him we return.
My mother!
Wake up. Please!
Mother!
[music swells]
PROMISED HEARTS
[music subsides]
[footsteps approaching]
Niyala!
[giggles]
Niyala, it's okay to be sad.
I sometimes feel sad too.
Especially since my father left.
I come here and I talk to God.
Here. For you.
-Thank you.
-You're welcome.
[emotional music swells]
-[goat bleating]
-[man] Roger.
[suspenseful music playing]
-[goat bleating]
-Here. Take it.
But, Father, why?
Are you a boy or not? Now, take it.
-Here.
-[bleating]
Listen to me.
Understand we're living
in a dog-eat-dog world.
The strong will destroy the weak.
Do you want to be eaten?
Or do you wanna hunt?
Now slit the goat's throat.
[goat bleats]
[father] Now!
Do it!
-[blade cuts]
-[goat screams]
[father] Today, you've learned
an important lesson.
How to be a real man. Understand?
[gentle music playing]
[man] Niyala!
Niyala!
[sighs]
Why are you crying?
You miss Mother?
You're also sad
'cause Faiq is moving to Jakarta.
How do you know? [sniffles]
Do you wanna go with him
and go to school there?
[sniffles]
But you'll be alone.
Who will take care of you?
I made Mother a promise that,
whatever happened,
that I would look after you. [sniffles]
But your mother also wanted you to
follow all of your dreams.
I will be okay.
I'll have Herman with me.
He can take care of me.
[optimistic music playing]
[whimpering]
[woman] Is everything ready?
-Goodbye. Peace be upon you.
-[father] Yes, salaam alaikum.
[woman] Let's go.
[engine starts]
[horns blaring]
Let's guess what my mom
has made for lunch today.
Um, is it chicken?
-Or fish?
-Okay!
-Let's find out.
-Okay!
[both] One, two, three!
-[Niyala] Aw.
-[Faiq] Yay! I win!
[Faiq] Let's guess today's lunch.
-Mi goreng sausage!
-Mi goreng chicken!
Okay, let's open it.
-[both] One, two, three!
-[Faiq] Aw.
-I win again!
The score is 14 to eight.
[both laugh]
Let's guess again.
-Mi goreng!
-Nasi goreng.
[both] One, two, and three!
[young woman] Ta-da! Oh, I lose!
[chuckles]
Mmm. Rather nice weather today.
Because I won, maybe?
Okay! So what's the score now?
Hmm
I'm thinking it's 1470 to 1650. Ah!
-[chuckles]
-There's no way you can beat that.
It's game, set and match.
We are the champion
No, no. I am the champion!
[both chuckle]
All right. You win.
[Faiq] Seems there's
quite a few people here today.
Do you still have class after this?
Yeah.
Well, what am I doing here
if you still have a class?
Look on the bright side.
You're having lunch with me.
Didn't you wanna have lunch with me?
Well, yes, in fact, I did.
Because we've got to settle
who the winner was between us.
-Oh, so funny!
-[both laughing]
So, you won. You can gloat now.
-Niyala.
-Yes?
-I want to tell you something important.
-What is it?
I got the scholarship.
That's great! Where to?
The university in Jakarta?
No, no. Cairo.
-[gasps] Oh.
-I'm going to Cairo.
-Oh.
-How cool is that?
Wow!
[smacks lips]
Come to think of it,
it is for three years.
That's quite a long time, isn't it?
Maybe I should just take
the Jakarta offer.
[exhales]
No, you can't do that.
It's your dream.
It's a chance you can't lose.
Yes, I know.
Congratulations!
-Thank you.
-[chuckles]
-Now, let's dig in.
-Yeah.
Don't forget to pray. Okay.
Amen. [sniffs]
Mmm! This lunch is gonna taste so good.
What with me winning and all. [chuckles]
Oh yeah! Mmm!
[wistful music playing]
[Faiq] Here you go.
Okay, thank you.
Faiq, I feel bad I can't go to
the airport to see you off.
-Oh, that's okay. I can look after myself.
-[car door slams]
It's getting late now, anyway.
Now don't be sad.
My legs won't work if you're sad.
-You see? They're not moving at all!
-[Niyala chuckles] You're silly.
Oh, I have something here
which should cheer you up a bit. [inhales]
Oh!
Don't eat them all at once,
or you'll get sick.
But enjoy. You take care of her, Mom.
Don't you worry, now.
I'll take good care of her.
-[Faiq] Well, goodbye. Salaam alaikum.
-[mother] Goodbye.
-Salaam.
-[Niyala] Salaam. You take care now.
-[Faiq] Peace be upon you.
-[man 1] And upon you too.
-[Faiq] Salaam alaikum.
-[men] Alaikum salaam.
-[Faiq] Salaam alaikum.
-[man] Alaikum salaam.
You set for three. Faiq is in Cairo.
Oh, my goodness.
-I completely forgot.
-Don't worry, it's okay. What's to eat?
I have made nasi goreng,
and it's with rice.
How on earth can you cook fried
rice if there's no rice?
-Oh! Yes, you can! Lots of new ways.
-Really?
The ingredients are just the spices,
and the eggs and veggies.
Well, that's just called scrambled eggs.
Or maybe egg stir-fry.
-[laughs]
-Can you take this plate away?
Take it back to the kitchen,
please. Thanks.
[woman] Yes, ma'am.
[man] Let's eat.
Okay.
GUESS WHAT I'M EATING NOW?
[phone buzzing]
[gentle, romantic music playing]
IT MUST BE GOAT MEAT AND OTHER DISHES
Bon apptit.
2 YEARS LATER
[Niyala] Hello! [chuckles]
-[boy] Niyala is a doctor now!
-[Niyala laughs]
-Hi!
-[kids chanting] Niyala is a doctor now!
-[Niyala chuckles]
-[kids] Niyala is a doctor now!
Niyala is a doctor now!
Niyala is a doctor now!
-Niyala is a doctor now!
-Hi, Herman.
-Niyala is a doctor now!
-Hello, Dad!
-Niyala!
-[kids] Niyala is a doctor now!
-[father] Salaam alaikum. Congratulations!
-[Niyala] Hello, Dad. Brother.
Dad, can we talk for a bit?
Um
Dad
-By God's grace, I have a plan.
-[Herman] Dad?
Since she's home now,
just go ahead and tell her.
What does he mean?
The news about you becoming a doctor,
it has spread all around the village!
Dad, cut the crap!
You remember our debt to Cosmas?
Now it has grown to three billion rupiah.
He wants you to marry his son.
[suspenseful music playing]
Wh what A debt?
What on earth is this about?
I borrowed some money from him,
for your mother's treatment.
You needed three billion
for the treatment?
Niyala, you don't understand.
We rented a fishing boat
to help pay off the loan,
but unfortunately, the boat, it sank.
Now we have to pay for the boat too.
Father, why why didn't you tell me?
Well, that's obvious, isn't it?
-You're the favorite child.
-[father] Herman.
No, I understand all right.
While she enjoyed college life,
we suffered Cosmas.
That's enough, Herman.
Dad.
-Isn't there another way to settle?
-There is a way! You marry Cosmas's son.
Herman. Dad! But I was thinking of
studying to become a specialist. This--
Do you have any idea
what we've been going through for years?
You, living it up in Jakarta!
And now you're leaving us again?
You want me to look after
our father forever?
[father] Herman, that's enough!
[emotional music swells]
PEACE BE UPON YOU, FAIQ.
[Faiq] What's on your mind?
I must bury my dreams of a career.
But why?
You have applied for a scholarship
in Germany, right?
I can't.
[Faiq] Maybe it's not the right time.
If God's willing
there will be another opportunity for you.
Amen.
You will come home soon?
Soon, I will take the Hippocratic Oath.
So you became a doctor
just so I would come home?
[both laugh]
-No, of course not.
-What, then?
I just want to know if you're coming home.
-[sighs] Should I or not?
-Yeah!
[chuckles]
I'll come home in due course. God willing.
-Promise me?
-I promise.
I'm counting on it.
[Faiq chuckles]
Now, you take good care of yourself.
I gotta to go to bed now. Salaam alaikum.
Alaikum salaam.
I WAS HOPING
YOU WERE THE ONE BETROTHED TO ME
[man] From the faculty of medicine,
Miss Niyala Askiah.
Niyala graduated with a GPA score of 3.8.
[cheering]
[mouths]
KARTAJAYA UNIVERSITY GRADUATION
-Congratulations on the highest GPA score.
-Thank you, sir.
78TH KERTAJAYA UNIVERSITY GRADUATION
ACADEMIC YEAR 2023-2024
[music fades]
Father! Herman!
Thank you, Dad.
Oh!
-Congratulations!
-[Niyala] Ummi!
I'm so proud of you.
[gasps] Thank you, Ummi.
You're welcome.
Thank you for taking good care of Dad
while I was studying in Jakarta.
It's my responsibility, as a son.
I have a surprise for you.
What?
Look.
[Niyala squeals] Faiq, you're here!
-[gasps]
-[Faiq chuckles]
-Oh my God!
-I have kept my promise to you.
I can't believe you're finally here!
I promised I would be.
Congratulations.
My little sister has become a doctor now.
Thank God! [laughs]
Here. I have a graduation present
to give you.
-A present?
-For you, yes!
For me? What is it?
Go on, open it.
I'll hold this while you open it.
Okay!
Ooh! It's so beautiful!
It's a scarf.
-You like it?
-I do.
It's pretty? I knew you'd like it.
-Thank you. It's so kind!
-[chuckles]
Once again, congratulations.
It's been quite a while
since your last visit.
[father] Yes, it has.
[Faiq's mother] You'll see nothing
has really changed in all of these years.
[laughs] Okay, come on in.
Hello there, baby.
[Niyala] Hello.
[Faiq's mother] Please come on in.
I hope you're hungry.
I've cooked delicious food for everyone.
Enough to feed an army!
-We might stay out here to cool down.
-[Faiq's mother] Sure.
You cool off a while
and I'll see you inside.
-[Niyala] Thank you, Ummi.
-[Faiq] Well, I'll, uh see you in there.
Niyala.
What do you say?
[suspenseful music playing]
Oh God.
Why do you have to bring
this up right now?
I'll be embarrassed if Ummi and Faiq hear.
You know you have no choice.
[emotional music playing]
What if I refuse?
-Then they'll send Dad to prison.
-Hey!
Ummi will hear us talking.
That's enough for now. Enough.
Dad's life is in your hands.
[Niyala sobbing]
[mouthing]
[sighs]
[sighs]
Niyala, what's wrong?
I'm okay.
Okay. It's fine
if you don't want to tell me.
But did you tell God about your problems?
That's what's most important.
Yeah.
This prayer rug
has always been here
through the hardest times in my life.
Please, excuse me now.
Niyala.
Whatever is troubling your mind,
God knows what is best for you.
Sleep well, okay?
Okay, I will. Good night, then.
Niyala. Remember,
you have to set the table for three now.
-Another plate. See?
-[thunder rumbling]
[laughs] I completely forgot!
Oh, there's two more people coming.
Oh, who are they?
-[doorbell rings]
-Ah! They're here.
Get the door. Quickly. Hurry, now.
Uh, we need two more plates.
And, we'll need spoons,
forks and two glasses of water.
-Salaam alaikum.
-Peace be upon you too.
Can I help you at all?
-[Faiq] Salaam alaikum!
-Ah
-Peace be upon you too.
-Ma'am.
-Oh!
-Dear.
-Hello.
-[Faiq] It's so wet.
I should have lent you my umbrella.
-[woman 2] We have one here.
-[Faiq] Oh, thank goodness.
Sis, uh, this is Mrs. Lis, Diah's mother.
-And this is Diah.
-[thunder crashes]
-Diah.
-Niyala.
God willing, Diah will be my future wife.
[dramatic music playing]
Oh, salaam alaikum!
-Hey!
-[Lis] Salaam alaikum.
Mwah! Mwah!
My goodness, were you caught in the rain?
-[Lis] Not at all.
-Mum told you?
-Right?
-[Diah] Thank you for having us.
-[mother] Huh?
-Didn't you tell Niyala about Diah?
-Oh, I thought you said you'd tell her.
-No, I'm sure you said you would tell her.
Oh, I did? I forgot to.
-[Lis] Oh!
-Anyway, now, come in.
-Come on inside.
-[Lis] Thank you.
-[mother] Come, dear.
-[Diah] Thank you.
[thunder rumbles]
[Faiq] Okay. This is lamb
and nasi goreng la Chef Faiq.
-Enjoy.
-[all gasp]
-[Lis] Ooh!
-Mmm.
-What do you think, Ummi?
-It smells so good!
I never knew that the university
in Cairo had a culinary class!
[all laugh]
Foreign students must learn to cook.
Now, please, dig in. I want
an honest opinion from all of you.
Come on then, let's enjoy it.
Diah, I hear you've been
to Europe many times, is that right?
Actually, not that often.
[Faiq] Diah is actually an
Islamic culture researcher.
[mother] Wonderful!
She's been to Europe and many
other Arab countries in her work.
We met in a workshop in Cairo.
And we've been friends ever since.
It was fate. I'm sure.
When fate brings two people together,
there's nothing we can do.
Yes, exactly.
They're meant for each other.
-Very true.
-[Faiq's mother chuckles]
[Lis] I think the mosque we visited
yesterday is perfect for the ceremony.
What do you think? How
about we book that mosque?
-[mother] That's suitable.
-[Faiq] Oh, sis.
[Niyala and Diah] Yes?
Oh
I meant Diah, sorry.
What time do we have
to be there to check it out?
[Diah] I made the appointment
for 2:00 p.m. today.
Are you coming with us, Mom?
[serene music playing]
[whistling]
Hey!
Well, what do you know?
It's my future in-laws!
So how was Jakarta, hey?
-And my daughter-in-law?
-[father] Uh
We need more time to convince her,
please, Mr. Cosmas.
Oh, but what's there to convince her of?
You don't need to convince her!
Women, they are nothing but commodities.
Just like those fish over there. You see?
[tense music playing]
But that's not my daughter, Mr. Cosmas.
So you're saying your daughter is
expensive because she's a doctor?
If your daughter was on display here,
no one would pay very much for her.
I really don't understand you.
You know, life is like a roller coaster.
Some ups, some downs.
But you love being at the bottom.
You should feel lucky
your daughter is worth some money.
Unlike this one.
Look at his ugly face.
[scoffs]
Let's go.
[man] Yeah, boss.
[tense music swells]
[Faiq] You making fried ramen or soup?
[Niyala] Why do you ask? Do you want some?
I'm making soupy ramen.
And chili.
-I'm in!
-The chili?
[chuckles]
Coming right up.
Let's see.
Faiq.
Yeah.
Do you mind if I ask you something?
No, you can't.
Of course you can!
Since when do you need
my permission to ask anything?
Because you usually
tell me everything that's going on.
But you didn't tell me
that you're getting married.
[somber music playing]
[sets knife down]
It's not that I didn't wanna tell you
or I avoided telling you.
It just seemed to all happen so fast.
But I thought that you were a modern man.
Progressive.
It's an arranged marriage.
The right person can enter your life
in many different ways.
In this case,
it was our parents who played the part.
Importantly,
Diah has met
all the essential requirements
from our revered prophet.
She has the looks,
a good background, wealthy,
and she's very religious.
Every criteria!
What else do I need, Niyala?
[music fades]
[cicadas chirping]
[dramatic music playing]
-[whistling]
-[keys jingling]
[attacker yells]
[screams]
-[yelps]
-[panting] No!
Herman.
[roars]
Murder!
-[man 1] What happened? What happened?
-[groaning]
-Boss, you all right? He went that way!
-[man 2] What?
-Get after him!
-Let's get him!
[woman] Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables
to help breast milk production.
-[Faiq's mother] Salaam alaikum, Doctor.
-Alaikum salaam.
-I have something for you.
-[gasps] Oh my goodness!
You didn't have to bring it to me!
I could have sent someone.
-I don't mind at all.
-Thank you!
-[Niyala] Doctor?
-Ah, the beautiful young doctor.
Now, tell me, how are you?
-I'm just fine, thank you.
Thank God. Oh, how is Faiq?
-He's back home now?
-Yes, and he's doing very well.
-But I have some very big news!
-I think I know what it is!
-He's getting married, am I right?
-[laughs]
I'm right, aren't I?
-[laughs]
-Who's the lucky woman? Is it you, Niyala?
Oh, no, of course not.
They're like siblings.
No, don't be silly.
You'll just have to wait
until further notice.
Oh, I hope you'll be able to come.
-[doctor] Of course I will come!
-[both laugh]
-I can't wait for the invitation.
-[phone buzzes]
[Faiq's mother] I don't think
you'll have to wait too long.
-Um, excuse me, it's from my father.
-[Faiq's mother] Sure.
Hello there, Father.
[dramatic music playing]
SUKARAJA POLICE PRECINC[Niyala] Father?
Oh my goodness.
Why did you do that, Herman?
If you won't help us, don't dare judge us.
Mr. Herman. You're free to go.
[Niyala] What do you mean?
The charges have been dropped.
The victim's family just left.
-Come on out.
-Wait here.
Excuse me.
Are you the family
who dropped the charges?
[chuckles]
You don't remember me, do you?
[laughs]
I was the boy who bullied you
when you were little.
[gentle music playing]
-You're Roger?
-[chuckles]
Uh, why did you drop the charges?
Well, it's the least I could do.
It's very kind of you.
But, you know, he is guilty as charged.
Yes, I know.
But I hate to see
what my father is doing to your family.
I'd like to help.
Uh, thank you.
That's very kind.
I'll see you around. Salaam alaikum.
Alaikum salaam.
[tense music playing]
Your son seems to love trouble, huh?
[Niyala's father] Mr. Cosmas,
uh, I'm so sorry.
[Herman inhales]
Listen to me. If you ever do that again,
I swear to God your body will be found
lying on the floor of your own boat.
Understand?
Oh my God, my brother.
[tense music swells]
Faiq!
Faiq?
[door opens]
-[Faiq] Ummi.
-Faiq.
[Faiq] Mom! What?
-It's Niyala.
-What's happened?
Niyala is going to marry Roger.
I don't understand.
[mouthing]
Has
has she agreed to this?
[tense music swells]
[phone buzzing]
[emotional music playing]
-Hello, Faiq.
-Niyala, please, just tell me the truth.
I heard from Mom. Why are you doing this?
-I have no control over this.
-I know, I know.
But why, Niyala?
Can you, uh, at least explain
why you're doing this? Or
It's your father.
He borrowed money from that loan shark.
My God! Why didn't you tell us this?
We could have helped somehow.
I already owe so much
to you and your family.
But that that doesn't matter!
You are family.
We'll find a solution, a way out,
before you have to do this thing.
But you don't understand, it's hard.
My God, I know how to fight.
But I have to obey
what my father wants me to do, right?
But
We're talking about Roger. That Roger.
I know, I know.
Faiq, I know.
I have to go now. I must be strong.
Faiq, please pray for me to be strong.
Salaam alaikum.
Peace be upon you.
[exhales]
[sighs]
[emotional music swells]
[sighs]
[sighs]
[Faiq's mother] God is great.
[music fades]
God is great.
[sighs]
[groans]
-Ummi? Oh my God.
-[sighing]
Ummi? Oh my God!
[gasps] Ijah!
[mother gasping]
Ijah!
-Ummi? You'll be all right.
-Ma'am?
-Ummi!
-Oh my God!
-[Niyala] She just collapsed.
-[Ijah] Oh. Oh!
-[Niyala] Hold her.
-[Ijah] Yes.
-Oh my
-[Niyala] Faiq?
-Faiq, are you there?
-[Ijah] All right. Here. Oh
Oh, ma'am.
[waves breaking gently]
[music fades]
Salaam alaikum, Niyala.
Alaikum salaam.
I can
understand your frustration.
You're being forced
to marry someone you don't love.
It's late. I have to go home.
The Roger you knew has changed, Niyala.
[gentle music playing]
And who is he now?
[Roger clears throat]
I've been keeping quiet
about my feelings for you,
for some time.
I was a bad boy.
But in order to win your love,
I've worked very hard
to try to be a better man.
Give me one more chance.
And if you still
can't return my love
[sighs]
then I'll tell my father
to call off the wedding.
And we will consider
all your debt as fully paid.
What will you get from that?
In the very least I get a chance
to show you
how much I love you.
And that's more than enough for me.
All right.
I'd better leave now.
Salaam alaikum.
Alaikum salaam.
[Roger] Salaam alaikum, sir.
[cicadas chirping]
[Diah] How is Ummi?
She's getting better.
I just gave her some vitamins.
I hope that tomorrow,
she'll be back on her feet.
[chuckles]
I know she's very concerned about Niyala.
[sighs]
Well, she literally raised us
as children together.
Of course she's concerned.
[emotional music playing]
[sighs]
Let's pray for the best for Niyala.
[sighs]
[woman] And give her nutritious food.
Get well soon, dear. Take care.
-[Roger] Dr. Shinta.
-Hello.
-How are you?
-I'm well, praise God.
Doctor, meet Dr. Niyala.
-Ah, your dad's so proud of you.
-[chuckles]
It's a great pleasure to meet you.
-I'll see you again later. Goodbye.
-Okay.
-Goodbye.
-Bye.
[chuckles]
What is it? Why are you smiling?
It just reminds me of our childhood.
Way back then,
you had a dream to become a doctor,
and look at you now!
-Hmm.
-Why did you want to be a doctor?
Uh
Actually, when I was little,
I wanted to treat my mother.
But now, as an adult,
my dream now is that one day,
everyone can have healthcare.
-That's so great! [chuckles]
-Mmm.
I heard you went to university
in Melbourne?
What made you return home?
I think it's our responsibility
to take care of the village.
[poignant music playing]
[laughs]
There's no better place to help
than your own home.
HARAPAN PUBLIC HEALTH CENTERS
Uh, excuse me, Doctor.
Uh, can I borrow Roger for a minute?
-Oh, sure, go ahead.
-Thank you.
Excuse us.
[woman] This is a similar wedding gown
to the one you liked which you showed us.
And here's some more ideas
for wedding decorations.
I like it but, I think we're looking
at something simpler. Right, honey?
-Honey?
-Hmm?
What's that? Oh!
Uh, this one.
I think it should be more more glamorous.
[woman] Well, we have
a few more pictures to show you.
Let me go and get them for you.
Excuse me.
-[Faiq] Sure.
-[woman] Merci.
[poignant music continues]
Honey
I've been thinking.
The way you care about Niyala
is more than just Platonic.
I don't understand.
Well,
it's like a man who cares
about a woman he loves.
Oh!
I've never really
thought about her in that way.
You're the first
serious relationship
that I've ever had in my life.
And on top of that, of course,
we're planning for our wedding.
So if you think
that I'm making you uncomfortable
or intentionally hurting you,
or even, perhaps,
trying to make you feel a little jealous,
well, then
I must sincerely apologize.
I want our relationship to be a good one.
Yeah.
So do I. [chuckles]
[Faiq] So you don't want the fancy one?
[Diah] You were the one
who didn't want the fancy one.
[Niyala] That's all for today.
Thank you very much, everybody.
HOW TO PREVENT DENGUE HEMORRHAGIC FEVER
[woman] I'm off then, Doc.
-[Niyala] Thank you.
-[woman] You're welcome.
[gentle, emotional music playing]
Ah! Hello, Roger.
Is that for me?
Yeah. Open it.
For your computer. [chuckles]
[both chuckle]
-Hang on, then.
-Yeah.
[gasps]
A PRESENTATION FOR THE FUTURE
A HAPPY FAMILY
NIYALA HOSPITAL, 10 YEARS LATER
[both laugh]
20 YEARS LATER, DOCTOR NIYALA'S FAMILY
GROWING OLD TOGETHER, 40 YEARS LATER
ALL OF IT STARTS TODAY
Niyala.
Will you
will you marry me?
I promise, I will stay by your side always
to make all of your dreams come true.
I'm sorry, Roger.
The feeling it just isn't there yet.
But I
have started to like
the way you show your
love to me.
Thank God.
RELIGIOUS AFFAIRS OFFICE
DKI JAKARTA PROVINCE, SOUTH JAKARTA
[keyboard tapping]
What's the problem here?
You made a typo with her name.
-That's all.
-Did I?
Show me.
My fiance's name is supposed
to be spelled with an I,
but instead, you spelled it
with a Y in her name.
-[clerk] Hmm.
-I wonder if you could correct the typo?
-Come again?
-Diah's name is spelled with an I.
It's a very simple correction.
[chuckles] Why use that tone to me?
Because all you had to do
was copy from her ID--
Hey, watch your manners!
-You're in a government office.
-I understand.
And when you raise your voice like that,
well, I I find that offensive.
I'm sorry. I didn't mean to offend you.
-I just want you to correct the typo--
-Sh, sh. Wait, wait.
Honey, it's okay.
It's okay. Okay.
-So.
-Uh-huh.
-The name in my ID is written like here.
-Uh-huh.
I wonder if you would be kind enough
to please correct the typo in the form
to match the name on my ID?
If you don't mind.
That's simple and clear.
Correct it to match her ID.
That's it.
Get me a blank form like this. Hmm?
-[Diah] Very sorry for the trouble.
-[sighs] It's okay.
[paper rustling]
[clerk] Fill in the form.
-[Faiq] Can I borrow your pen?
-Here.
[Faiq] Goodness me. [sighs]
[clicks pen]
[clears throat]
Taking a long time.
[sighs]
[quizzical music playing]
Educational history?
Master's degree.
From where?
Cairo.
And in Cairo, did they give you
a multiple choice test?
Or perhaps you needed
to learn to write an essay?
Done. I'm done. Okay.
[Diah] Wait, I'll check it over.
Just a sec.
-[clerk] Did you just make a face?
-[Faiq] No.
-[clerk] It shows your disgust for me.
-[Faiq] That's just my normal face, sir.
[clerk] You don't like me at all, do you?
-It's my normal--
-Honey. Uh
-Excuse me, sir.
-Hmm?
[Diah] Whose date of birth
is June 8th, 1999?
-Oh my goodness, I
-[Diah gasps]
Niyala's?
[clerk laughing]
So you really don't remember
her date of birth?
[chuckling]
[gentle, emotional music playing]
-Let me correct it.
-[clerk] Yeah, let her do it.
You'll just keep making typos! [laughs]
Thank God, Father.
I never thought that Roger could change.
He's sweeter now.
And more mature. [laughs]
Who knows?
Some people can change a lot, I think.
Maybe it comes with
being an adult and all that. [chuckles]
[father] So, Niyala,
you don't mind if
if Mr. Cosmas schedules your wedding date
sooner than planned?
[dramatic music playing]
God willing, I'm ready.
Love can grow over time, I think.
[father] Then both of you
should now ask for the blessings
of both Ummi Ambar and Faiq.
[music fades]
[birdsong]
Faiq, this is Roger.
-[Roger] Salaam alaikum.
-Alaikum salaam.
-[Roger] How are you?
-Thank God, we're fine.
Please let me introduce Diah,
Faiq's future wife.
[Ambar] Ah, kids, you're here! Come on in.
Yes, Ummi. Shall we?
-[Faiq] After you.
-[Roger] Thank you.
Faiq. I think I've met Roger before.
Somewhere.
Oh, where from? You know him?
[Roger] Are you sure we've met?
I don't remember.
[Ambar] Diah! Faiq! Come on inside.
It's kind of you to invite me.
[Faiq] Let's go.
[Ambar] Niyala told me that you were
planning to get married.
How is it all progressing?
Yes, that's right.
But first, I should apologize in advance
about the way
Niyala and I first came to meet.
As the only son of my father,
I felt somewhat obliged
to follow my father's will.
Still, I'm overjoyed
about being betrothed to Niyala,
because now that I've met you, Ummi,
and also Faiq, and Diah,
I know where it is
that she gets her sweetness from.
Thank you.
Well, I certainly hope that
they are sincere sentiments.
Mmm. Where did you go to university?
Oh, he went
to the University of Melbourne, like you.
-[coughs]
-[Niyala] Oh!
-Diah?
-What's wrong, Diah?
-Are you all right?
-[Faiq] Are you okay?
[clears throat]
I'm fine. Just went down the wrong way.
-[laughs]
-[Ambar] Now, dig in kids. Let's eat.
[suspenseful music playing]
So have you set a date?
Uh
If all goes well, the engagement ceremony
will be on Saturday.
I hope all of you can come.
Mmm
God willing.
[both chuckle]
Hmm.
Praise God.
[emotional song in Indonesian playing]
[Ambar] Eat! You've all been staring
at the food, now it's time to eat up.
Yes, Ummi.
[sighs]
[no audible dialogue]
[song continues]
In the name of Allah.
DISCARD
[Niyala] Goodbye, Ummi.
-Peace be upon you.
-[Ambar] Peace be upon you too.
[Roger] Ummi.
-Goodbye.
-[Ambar] Goodbye. Drive safely.
-[Roger] I shall. Salaam alaikum.
-[Niyala] Bye.
-[Faiq] Niyala!
-[Niyala] Yes?
-[chuckles]
-Doctor, you forgot your scarf.
Can't have that.
You were so eager to leave us, you forgot.
Yes, I did.
You know, I've just realized.
-It looks good on you.
-[laughs]
Are you complimenting your own taste?
Oh, I'm not kidding.
I think I certainly have excellent taste.
[both chuckle]
I know, it's a pretty scarf. Very pretty.
[chuckles]
I guess I'll see you later.
Salaam alaikum.
-Alaikum salaam.
-Bye!
-Bye, Ummi.
Thank you, Faiq.
I hope, that with all of your blessing,
that I can be a good husband
and support to Niyala.
Don't ever break her heart now.
Safe trip.
-[Niyala] Bye!
-[Faiq] Take care!
[Niyala] Thank you very much
for coming with me to visit Ummi.
It was a pleasure, Niyala.
But, Niyala
Mmm?
I don't mean to offend you,
but I was watching
some of the body language
between you and Faiq.
-And there were things that were--
-I don't understand.
Oh! Are you jealous?
Is that what it is? [laughs]
Oh. Goodness me.
Faiq and I, we're just like siblings.
Yeah, I get that.
-But I think you should keep in mind--
-Oh my God, Roger, we're like siblings.
-It's not like that. I--
-Don't interrupt when I'm talking to you!
[dramatic music playing]
Are you even listening?
[softly] My God. My God.
Niyala.
Niyala, I'm so sorry.
Niyala, I
I shouldn't have yelled like that.
I I overreacted.
[music fades]
What's going on, Diah?
[gasps] Nothing. I'm fine.
[Lis] What is it?
-Are you sure you're okay?
-Mmm.
-[knocking at door]
-[Faiq] Hello there.
-Alaikum salaam.
-[Faiq] Mom.
Faiq. Diah has been waiting up for you.
Oh, I know. I'm sorry, there was traffic.
It's okay. Sit yourself down now.
You can both talk your heads off here!
I'll be up in my room, okay?
[Faiq] What's this about?
My instinct was right.
I met Roger several times
when I was in Melbourne.
[suspenseful music playing]
But I remember one day,
he just disappeared.
They said he was involved
in a criminal case.
What kind of case?
It was
a rape case.
Oh my God.
Uh
You sure about this?
I can't confirm about the rape,
but I did know he was dating this girl.
You need to take a look at this here.
Look.
Look.
[Roger] Here, let me.
Niyala.
Niyala, please wait.
You're still mad at me.
[sighs]
You asked me to open my heart to you.
But I'm afraid
you've just made it harder
for me to love you.
Niyala, wait. Wait.
I'm sorry.
I didn't mean it.
I was taught
to behave like that by my father.
I didn't learn any other way.
Please, Niyala, give me one more chance.
Let me be very clear.
Faiq and I are close
because he's done nothing
but be sweet to me.
-Excuse me.
-Niyala.
Niyala!
[poignant music playing]
KEEP
Salaam alaikum.
[Herman] Alaikum salaam.
-Do you want me to heat the soup?
-No, I'm good.
But thank you.
What did you say?
Thank you.
Do you want to sit with me while I eat?
People in the village,
they say you're smart.
Born with good fortune.
While I
should be grateful
for having been born at all.
Everybody but you sees me as a deadbeat.
I turned against you.
I was blinded by jealousy.
Forgive me.
CEMPAKA LESTARI DAUGHTER OF M. RUKHYABIRTH: DEC 17, 1977 - DEATH: AUG 8, 2008
[Niyala] Mother
How are you?
I've
received a marriage proposal, Mother.
[poignant music continues]
Can I have your blessings?
I hope everything goes well.
I hope this is the best for me,
for Father,
and for Herman.
I believe
God has a beautiful plan for us.
[knocking at door]
Come in.
-Niyala! Ah!
-Ummi!
[laughs] Now, now, don't get up.
[sighs]
Such a pretty girl.
Oh, but why so tense?
Are you nervous, honey?
Everything's gonna be just fine.
Niyala?
Do you have a minute?
Uh, sure, you two chat.
I'll just be outside helping with things.
What's on your mind?
Can we talk outside?
With Faiq?
[Faiq] I know this is not a good time
to tell you this, but
Um [clears throat]
It's about Roger.
[somber music playing]
We just learned the truth
about what happened to Roger
when he was in Australia.
I don't like telling you this, but
Excuse me, uh I'm sorry,
but are you Sherin?
Yes?
I'm Faiq. I'm the person who called you.
-I'm sorry, I don't
-Please.
I just need a minute
of your time, that's all.
I'm sorry. I just want to be left alone.
So, please can you respect my privacy?
[Diah] Miss.
Miss.
Miss Sherin.
[sighs shakily]
I know it can often be painful
to dig up the past.
But please,
we're trying to help another woman.
[Faiq] Sherin finally told us
that Roger forced himself on her.
In fact, Roger raped Sherin.
And now, she's carrying his child.
Oh my God. My goodness.
[gasps]
Wh
Faiq,
Diah
All of this time, I have been trying
so hard to understand
and to believe in Roger.
And what you have just told me
makes that so much harder.
But I have no choice now.
I can't change my decision.
-That's not my intention at all.
-[Niyala] But--
-We're concerned about your future.
-I know.
I I know who he is.
I do know.
-But
-Honey.
It's okay.
Niyala.
I'm sorry we had
to be the bearers of the truth.
Just keep me in your thoughts.
And pray for me
to help me
be strong.
[gasps shakily]
I should get ready for the ceremony.
Excuse me.
Niyala
[somber, emotional music swells]
[Cosmas] Hello and welcome, everybody.
We're here today to ask
if Mr. Rusli's daughter
agrees to the marriage proposal
of our son.
[somber, emotional music continues]
-Yes, I do.
-[woman 1] Congratulations!
-[man 1] Ah! Congratulations.
-[applause]
-[man 2] Thank God!
-[man 1 chuckles] Yes!
[Cosmas] Thanks be to God!
-So the engagement is now official.
-[man 2] Praise God!
[Cosmas] And let's hope it will soon
be followed by a wedding ceremony.
-[man 3] Amen!
-[woman 2] Amen!
[Cosmas] Now you may place
the ring on her hand.
-Praise Allah!
-[all] Praise Allah!
Praise God!
[Cosmas] Now, before
we all move on to the banquet,
let me share with you
another exciting piece of news.
God willing, my son Roger
is going to be a candidate
for the very important position
of village leader!
-[gasps and laughter]
-[Cosmas] How about that?
[woman 3] Ah!
[Cosmas] Yes, please all pray for him
and I trust you will all
support his campaign
for a better future for our village.
-[woman 3] Ah!
-[man 3] Amen!
[applause]
[Cosmas] And now it's time
for us all to celebrate!
Let's eat!
[laughs]
[music fades]
[wistful music playing]
What is it, Niyala?
I want to ask something.
I remember when you asked me
to give myself a chance
to learn to love you,
and you said that you loved me.
But why, then,
did you choose to keep secrets from me?
You and your father
seemed more excited
about your new candidacy
than about our engagement.
Niyala,
me running
for the village leader's position
is all my father's idea.
I didn't know anything about it.
Whether I'm running or not,
it doesn't change any of my
my feelings that I have for you.
You know I still love you!
You have to prove that to me.
Love is about actions!
I'm showing you the proof now!
How are you doing that?
By keeping secrets from me? Huh?
Fine, I know he controls you.
But he must have told you.
So why didn't you tell me?
Sherin.
[dramatic music playing]
Is it true that you raped her?
You got her pregnant?
And now you have a child with her?
Is it true?
-Is it?
-Yes!
Yes, I have a child with her!
But it's not true. I never raped her.
Why didn't you tell me?
Why did I have to hear it
from lots of other people?
Because that's my disgraceful past.
Do you think that I don't blame myself
every day for that mistake? Huh?
To this day, I carry that guilt with me.
I still can't forgive myself.
I have a disgraceful past,
but I'm a changed person.
But that shameful chapter is closed.
Now, it is just between me and God.
But if you won't ever
change your mind about me,
then it's out of my control,
and I'll leave it to God.
[wistful music swells]
[laughter]
[Cosmas] You've built
the healthcare center,
and you've rebuilt the prayer house!
And now, you're on the verge of marrying
the very first female doctor
of our village!
The pride of the village!
[laughs]
You know, Niyala is pious,
and very religious.
I only have to say the word "God"
and she agrees.
[chuckling]
That's my boy!
[Cosmas continues laughing]
[birdsong]
[music fades]
[poignant music playing]
DISCARD
[man] Centuries ago,
long before the sea met the sky,
God already chose
who your partner in life would be.
You mustn't worry if you think
you have already taken the correct steps.
First get to know her.
Seek guidance from God.
Secondly,
the difference between ta'aruf and dating?
What is it?
Ta'aruf is to know the mind.
Dating is to know the body.
-[chuckles]
-And it's forbidden.
-But you have doubts?
-Um
I'm doing my best to follow
the guidelines you've talked about.
But I still have doubts.
I'm afraid that one day,
somebody's heart will be hurt.
So, you do have doubts.
I won't refer to the book,
because you may have
more knowledge than I.
-A Cairo graduate.
-[laughs]
-Geography does not determine wisdom.
-Yes.
-I still need counsel and your guidance.
-Indeed. Here's a simple solution.
Let go of things that make you unsure,
and embrace things
where you have no doubt.
It's our prophet's quotation.
Look inside your heart.
Your heart will not lie to you.
And, if in doubt,
you must rethink and not move forward.
Okay?
God does not err, only humans do.
If you leave your sandals there,
someone may take them.
-God makes no mistakes.
-[laughs]
-May peace be upon you.
-May peace be upon you too.
[emotional music playing]
[Faiq] Oh God
I thank You for the gift of love.
The most beautiful and powerful feeling.
[Niyala] Everything I feel,
it came from You, God.
Whatever it is that I feel
[music intensifies]
[Diah] Oh God,
if You doubt
that I really understand love,
then please guide me, God.
[Faiq] Please guide me to give
the right person my sincere love.
The love that came from You.
[Niyala gasps]
I just want
to please You.
[Faiq] I'm still seeking Your guidance
to illuminate the path of love.
[Diah] If You think I'm selfish
and I've been expecting
a return on every gift,
guide me to be selfless,
to give unconditionally,
and to love
without measuring the sacrifice.
[Niyala] If I must love someone,
please help me to find the strength
so I can love them with all my heart,
and without feeling heartbroken.
-[man] Watch your step.
-[child coughing]
[man] Hurry, honey.
Hey, get the door. Knock.
-[woman] Anyone home?
-[girl coughing]
-Are you there?
-Stay with me, baby.
-Oh, Doctor. Please help.
-Salaam alaikum.
Doctor, please help my daughter.
I beg you. Please.
-[coughing]
-How long has she had this fever for?
-It's been five days, Doctor.
-[Niyala] Oh.
Wait a minute.
Did you see sores on her gums
or a nosebleed?
-[girl coughing]
-No, none of that.
Okay. Wait, I won't be long.
-Sit her down.
-[father] Yes, thank you. Here we go.
-[mother] Come here, baby. Slow, honey.
-[father] Gently. Easy.
[mother] You're gonna be okay.
The doctor's here.
Everything's gonna be okay.
-[girl gasping]
-Hello, Dr. Shinta.
Doctor, I have a child here.
Suspected dengue fever.
I think she's going into shock.
-She needs to be admitted immediately.
-[mother] Oh my God, this is so bad.
[Niyala] Do you know someone
who can donate platelets?
That's good.
[sighs] Yes, Doctor. Thank you so much.
-Okay. We need a vehicle to transport her.
-What do we do?
-Right away.
-[Niyala] Hurry.
-[father] I'll be back.
-[mother] Be careful, dear.
-[Niyala] Now, then, let me take a look.
-[girl gasping]
[birdsong]
[woman] Thank God,
her platelet count is increasing.
You know, she almost didn't make it.
If Doctor Niyala wasn't there
and did the right thing, well, who knows?
But I'm very glad to tell you that Putri
is no longer in a critical condition.
All she needs to do is eat some food,
and she will get better, okay?
-Thank you. You hear what the doctor said?
-There. Another?
-[father] Eat up.
-[mother] Another mouthful.
That's my girl.
-[doctor] You must excuse me. Bye, then.
-Okay. Thank you, Doctor.
-Thank God she's okay.
-Yes. Thank you, Doctor.
-Thank you, Doctor.
-You're very welcome.
HARAPAN PUBLIC HEALTH CENTERS
-Please send me the file when you can.
-Yeah.
[father] Hello, Doctor?
[Niyala] Mr. Dadang.
Uh, you go on ahead, okay?
-Okay, Doc.
-Bye.
What can I do for you? Putri? Is she okay?
Thank God, she's getting better every day.
-Thank God.
-Uh
I know if I tell you about this, Doctor,
I will be risking my own life.
Oh my God!
But what are you talking about?
[suspenseful music playing]
Roger has been planning this all along.
I am willing to be called as a witness
against Mr. Cosmas and Roger.
What crimes?
Roger and his father have been
using you all this time
so he can be village leader.
Not many people from the village
can get higher education,
let alone the chance to become a doctor.
Marrying you will help his election.
Oh God!
That includes the boat
he sank deliberately.
[gasps]
He did that to pressure your father
to arrange a marriage
between you and Roger.
Oh God. Help.
I'm so sorry.
-Excuse me, Doctor.
-Yeah.
[suspenseful music swells]
[somber music playing]
[sighs]
[phone ringing]
[Faiq] Ummi.
Mom.
Salaam alaikum, Ummi.
Alaikum salaam, Niyala. It's Faiq!
-[gasps]
-Are you okay?
Oh!
-Niyala. What's wrong?
-[sobbing]
Niyala, what's wrong?
Tell me what's happening. Are you okay?
I should have believed you.
Niyala, you okay? Niyala!
[sobs] Please forgive me. I'm sorry.
[crying]
[continues sobbing]
-I want you to take care of this.
-Yes, sir.
[music fades]
Niyala.
[tense music playing]
-Here.
-Thank you, sir.
[Roger] Hi!
What are you doing here?
-What is it?
-I want to call off our wedding.
-You what?
-You told me you're just a victim!
You told me you had no choice,
and I believed in you!
What are you talking about?
You fooled my family
and endangered my family members!
You even took advantage
of my father's situation!
-And all this time you've been playing us!
-Niyala, listen. We can talk about this.
-Yeah? Niyala--
-Let go!
-Niyala--
-Let me go!
[menacing music playing]
Come here! Now what?
If you want to call off the wedding,
I will put you
and the rest of your family in jail.
No, I'll be the one to send you to prison!
-You talk too much. Shut up.
-Somebody help me!
-[Niyala screams] Help!
-[Roger] Get here!
-[Niyala yelps]
-[Roger grunts]
[both grunt]
-[Roger grunts]
-[Niyala gasps]
[yelps]
Help!
-Nobody can hear your screams.
-[screams]
Help!
I told you to shut up.
Your life is now in my hands.
I may decide to kill you.
Probably, I should.
-Would you prefer to end up like Sherin?
-[gasps]
[screams]
-Get off her! Hey!
-[screams]
[both men grunting]
-I'm okay. Oh my God, he's crazy!
-You okay?
[menacing music intensifies]
Oh my God, Faiq!
[both grunting]
[knife clatters]
-[Roger yells]
-[Niyala] Faiq!
[Roger gasps]
[yelling]
Faiq, watch out!
[grunts]
-[Roger yells]
-Faiq!
-[Herman] Niyala, don't! Don't!
-[Roger yelling]
-[Faiq yells]
-[Niyala] Stop! Stop it!
-[Faiq yelling]
-[Herman] Niyala!
-That's enough. Come on, that's enough.
-[Faiq gasping]
-[Herman groans]
-[Niyala] Faiq, are you okay?
-[panting]
-Herman.
-[panting] Are you hurt?
-No.
[somber music playing]
POLICE
Get him in the car.
At least I didn't step on anyone else
to stay at the top like you.
[chuckles]
-In the car.
-[engine starts]
[somber music swells]
[mouths]
[sighs]
[birdsong]
[music fades]
Why did I even bother looking for you
around the village,
when I knew exactly
that I'd find you here?
Back then, you gave me this prayer rug
when you saw me at my mother's grave
and I was crying.
Since then,
it has never left my side.
If
I was afraid
for my father's safety
when he went out to sea,
or if I missed my mother
I was grateful
to have a mother figure like Ummi.
[emotional music playing]
I want to apologize to you
for expecting
more than that from you.
I wasn't grateful enough
for how you cared about me
as a brother, and I let this feeling grow.
Thank you, Faiq.
[Faiq] This is yours.
I never take back any gift
I have given to someone.
Goodbye.
Salaam alaikum.
Alaikum salaam.
[Niyala] I once read a storybook.
It was about people who demand love.
When you were brought
into the world by love,
in the end,
you'll find an infinite sea of love.
The book talks about
how people tie themselves in knots
and hurt themselves
chasing and demanding love
from people around them.
But I still believe
if love knocks on your door,
then it's no accident.
Because God sent it your way.
-[Dr. Shinta] Hi!
-Hello.
-Lovely to see you.
-How are you?
[Niyala] And because it's true love
I want you to have this.
I will embrace it.
An invitation.
[Dr. Shinta] And delivered
personally by you.
Even though he doesn't
feel the same about me.
As sure as the sun,
the moon,
and the stars shining in the sky,
as certain as the wind blows,
and as forever
as the rivers flowing to the sea,
the sea, like an eternal friend,
listens without judgement
to our deepest secrets,
because the sun,
the moon,
the stars,
the river and the sea,
know that one day, in the end,
you'll reach an endless ocean
called
love.
-[officiant] Is everybody ready?
-[man] Yes, sir.
[Faiq] We're ready.
[officiant] Okay,
let's start the ceremony.
Yes, we're ready.
In the name of Allah,
do you, Muhammed Faiq al-Husaini,
son of Abdullah Husni,
take Diah Pramestaningrum,
daughter of Suprapto,
in exchange for a dowry in the amount
of 15 million rupiah and 20 grams of gold?
-Such amount to be paid in cash.
-[door opens]
[Dr. Shinta] Wait!
[somber music playing]
Excuse me, ladies and gentlemen.
I'm sorry to interrupt.
Mrs. Lis, this concerns you.
What's going on?
Do you remember when
you visited Dr. Mutia's clinic
to get the donated breast milk?
Yes.
[sighs]
DR. MUTIA'S LACTATION CLINIC
BREAST MILK DONOR CONTRACThe breast milk that was donated to Diah
was from Mrs. Ambar Atmaranti.
So Faiq and Diah
are not allowed to be married.
[officiant] Under Islamic law,
a marriage between a man and a woman
who had received breast milk
from the same woman,
are not permitted to marry,
because they're tied by blood.
[somber music swells]
[music subsides]
[birdsong]
I remember the day when
you told me that I am your first love.
But it looks like
you found your true love
long before you had ever met me.
Don't bottle up your feelings
toward Niyala for too long.
I can see just how beautiful
your love together is.
Trust in God's timing.
He will always answer our prayers.
I wish you both happiness.
Salaam alaikum.
[music swells]
[music fades]
Peace be upon you, Ambu.
Forgive me if I don't come often.
But wherever I happen to be,
I always pray for you, Ambu.
I'd like to ask permission of you.
I need to say something to Niyala.
[emotional music playing]
I
don't really know how long I've had
this feeling in my heart.
It's possible
from the first time I cheered you up here.
Or maybe
from when I had to leave you
during those years when I was in Cairo.
I can't recall.
But one thing is sure.
I couldn't sleep soundly
until I was absolutely sure
that you were home and that you were safe.
I couldn't enjoy my food if I didn't
know what you had eaten that day.
I couldn't focus on my studies, either,
if I didn't know how
you were getting along in your training.
And another thing.
My heart was broken when I found out
you were getting married.
God put the tiny seed in my heart
without me even noticing it.
I love you, Niyala.
And it's not platonic,
it's hard to understand.
[gasps]
[Faiq sighs shakily]
Will you
will you marry me?
I promise to love you always.
I'll keep my promise to ambu
to always keep you safe.
For as long as God allows.
[gasps]
Oh, thank God!
Don't thank God yet.
I didn't say yes.
I thought silence denoted consent?
According to our prophet,
a woman's silence is
considered as consent.
[laughs]
-You're sneaky!
-[both chuckle]
So what do you say?
-Yes?
-Yes.
-[giggles]
-[gasps] Allah be praised!
Oh!
[romantic music swells]
[Niyala] Through all these years,
I've learned to believe
that fate is just a veil
covering the hidden secret of our lives.
Whatever God has planned for me,
I don't need to understand.
I just need to trust in His plan for me.
Fate has finally shown its hand.
[inaudible]
[Niyala] It has opened my eyes
to its beauty.
So I may turn a page
and move forward with my life.
I know now that I don't need
to question His judgement.
Because whatever His plan is for me,
it always brings happiness in the end.
[romantic music continues]
[music fades]
[gentle ballad playing]
[lyrics in Indonesian]
[music fades]
[gentle, joyful music playing]
[child laughing]
[footsteps running]
[child 1] Catch it, catch it!
-Yay!
-[child 2] Yay!
[child 1] Come play with us!
[children laugh]
[child 1] Look, there's Niyala!
[giggling]
-Don't you wanna play with us?
-No.
-I have to take care of my mother.
-Okay.
This is for you.
That's nice!
You're welcome. See ya!
Okay, let's play!
-[child 1] My turn, my turn!
-[child 3] Watch this!
[gentle music continues]
[cries out] Ah!
-[child 4 laughs] You missed!
-[child 3] Hey!
-Get off!
-Ow!
-You're in for it.
-Leave her alone.
-What do you care?
-[grunts]
[Niyala] Faiq, Roger! Please stop!
Stop! Stop fighting.
-Come on, stop. Please.
-[woman] It's the boys, they're fighting.
[Niyala] Stop, Roger, you'll hurt him.
Hey, boss, is that Roger fighting?
[woman] Break it up, you boys.
Stop this right now.
The two of you, stop it.
[man 1] Hey, hey, hey!
Whoa, whoa, whoa. Excuse me, ladies.
Stop, stop, stop! Hey!
What do you guys think you're doing?
What's going on?
-That boy. He's always fighting.
-[man 2] You go home.
-Hasan!
-[man 1] Yes, sir.
-Niyala, are you okay?
-Yes, I'm just fine.
Look. You've hurt your arm.
-It'll be all right.
-Just hang on.
Ah! I see you're well-equipped.
Of course,
I'm the little doctor in school.
-Niyala! Niyala! It's Mom.
-[Niyala] Mom?
[somber music playing]
[woman 1] Niyala. Herman.
Come here, honey. Let's go.
[woman 2 sighs]
-[groaning]
-[Niyala, sobbing] Mom!
[crying]
[mother wheezing]
[weakly] Herman
[groans] Niyala
[moans softly]
You must pursue your dreams.
-Your dreams.
-[Niyala whimpers]
[mother sighing]
There is no God but Allah.
-[sighing]
-[Niyala sobbing]
[moaning softly]
[Niyala sobbing]
[mother sighs]
[Niyala sobs]
Oh, Mother!
[man] We belong to Allah,
and to Him we return.
My mother!
Wake up. Please!
Mother!
[music swells]
PROMISED HEARTS
[music subsides]
[footsteps approaching]
Niyala!
[giggles]
Niyala, it's okay to be sad.
I sometimes feel sad too.
Especially since my father left.
I come here and I talk to God.
Here. For you.
-Thank you.
-You're welcome.
[emotional music swells]
-[goat bleating]
-[man] Roger.
[suspenseful music playing]
-[goat bleating]
-Here. Take it.
But, Father, why?
Are you a boy or not? Now, take it.
-Here.
-[bleating]
Listen to me.
Understand we're living
in a dog-eat-dog world.
The strong will destroy the weak.
Do you want to be eaten?
Or do you wanna hunt?
Now slit the goat's throat.
[goat bleats]
[father] Now!
Do it!
-[blade cuts]
-[goat screams]
[father] Today, you've learned
an important lesson.
How to be a real man. Understand?
[gentle music playing]
[man] Niyala!
Niyala!
[sighs]
Why are you crying?
You miss Mother?
You're also sad
'cause Faiq is moving to Jakarta.
How do you know? [sniffles]
Do you wanna go with him
and go to school there?
[sniffles]
But you'll be alone.
Who will take care of you?
I made Mother a promise that,
whatever happened,
that I would look after you. [sniffles]
But your mother also wanted you to
follow all of your dreams.
I will be okay.
I'll have Herman with me.
He can take care of me.
[optimistic music playing]
[whimpering]
[woman] Is everything ready?
-Goodbye. Peace be upon you.
-[father] Yes, salaam alaikum.
[woman] Let's go.
[engine starts]
[horns blaring]
Let's guess what my mom
has made for lunch today.
Um, is it chicken?
-Or fish?
-Okay!
-Let's find out.
-Okay!
[both] One, two, three!
-[Niyala] Aw.
-[Faiq] Yay! I win!
[Faiq] Let's guess today's lunch.
-Mi goreng sausage!
-Mi goreng chicken!
Okay, let's open it.
-[both] One, two, three!
-[Faiq] Aw.
-I win again!
The score is 14 to eight.
[both laugh]
Let's guess again.
-Mi goreng!
-Nasi goreng.
[both] One, two, and three!
[young woman] Ta-da! Oh, I lose!
[chuckles]
Mmm. Rather nice weather today.
Because I won, maybe?
Okay! So what's the score now?
Hmm
I'm thinking it's 1470 to 1650. Ah!
-[chuckles]
-There's no way you can beat that.
It's game, set and match.
We are the champion
No, no. I am the champion!
[both chuckle]
All right. You win.
[Faiq] Seems there's
quite a few people here today.
Do you still have class after this?
Yeah.
Well, what am I doing here
if you still have a class?
Look on the bright side.
You're having lunch with me.
Didn't you wanna have lunch with me?
Well, yes, in fact, I did.
Because we've got to settle
who the winner was between us.
-Oh, so funny!
-[both laughing]
So, you won. You can gloat now.
-Niyala.
-Yes?
-I want to tell you something important.
-What is it?
I got the scholarship.
That's great! Where to?
The university in Jakarta?
No, no. Cairo.
-[gasps] Oh.
-I'm going to Cairo.
-Oh.
-How cool is that?
Wow!
[smacks lips]
Come to think of it,
it is for three years.
That's quite a long time, isn't it?
Maybe I should just take
the Jakarta offer.
[exhales]
No, you can't do that.
It's your dream.
It's a chance you can't lose.
Yes, I know.
Congratulations!
-Thank you.
-[chuckles]
-Now, let's dig in.
-Yeah.
Don't forget to pray. Okay.
Amen. [sniffs]
Mmm! This lunch is gonna taste so good.
What with me winning and all. [chuckles]
Oh yeah! Mmm!
[wistful music playing]
[Faiq] Here you go.
Okay, thank you.
Faiq, I feel bad I can't go to
the airport to see you off.
-Oh, that's okay. I can look after myself.
-[car door slams]
It's getting late now, anyway.
Now don't be sad.
My legs won't work if you're sad.
-You see? They're not moving at all!
-[Niyala chuckles] You're silly.
Oh, I have something here
which should cheer you up a bit. [inhales]
Oh!
Don't eat them all at once,
or you'll get sick.
But enjoy. You take care of her, Mom.
Don't you worry, now.
I'll take good care of her.
-[Faiq] Well, goodbye. Salaam alaikum.
-[mother] Goodbye.
-Salaam.
-[Niyala] Salaam. You take care now.
-[Faiq] Peace be upon you.
-[man 1] And upon you too.
-[Faiq] Salaam alaikum.
-[men] Alaikum salaam.
-[Faiq] Salaam alaikum.
-[man] Alaikum salaam.
You set for three. Faiq is in Cairo.
Oh, my goodness.
-I completely forgot.
-Don't worry, it's okay. What's to eat?
I have made nasi goreng,
and it's with rice.
How on earth can you cook fried
rice if there's no rice?
-Oh! Yes, you can! Lots of new ways.
-Really?
The ingredients are just the spices,
and the eggs and veggies.
Well, that's just called scrambled eggs.
Or maybe egg stir-fry.
-[laughs]
-Can you take this plate away?
Take it back to the kitchen,
please. Thanks.
[woman] Yes, ma'am.
[man] Let's eat.
Okay.
GUESS WHAT I'M EATING NOW?
[phone buzzing]
[gentle, romantic music playing]
IT MUST BE GOAT MEAT AND OTHER DISHES
Bon apptit.
2 YEARS LATER
[Niyala] Hello! [chuckles]
-[boy] Niyala is a doctor now!
-[Niyala laughs]
-Hi!
-[kids chanting] Niyala is a doctor now!
-[Niyala chuckles]
-[kids] Niyala is a doctor now!
Niyala is a doctor now!
Niyala is a doctor now!
-Niyala is a doctor now!
-Hi, Herman.
-Niyala is a doctor now!
-Hello, Dad!
-Niyala!
-[kids] Niyala is a doctor now!
-[father] Salaam alaikum. Congratulations!
-[Niyala] Hello, Dad. Brother.
Dad, can we talk for a bit?
Um
Dad
-By God's grace, I have a plan.
-[Herman] Dad?
Since she's home now,
just go ahead and tell her.
What does he mean?
The news about you becoming a doctor,
it has spread all around the village!
Dad, cut the crap!
You remember our debt to Cosmas?
Now it has grown to three billion rupiah.
He wants you to marry his son.
[suspenseful music playing]
Wh what A debt?
What on earth is this about?
I borrowed some money from him,
for your mother's treatment.
You needed three billion
for the treatment?
Niyala, you don't understand.
We rented a fishing boat
to help pay off the loan,
but unfortunately, the boat, it sank.
Now we have to pay for the boat too.
Father, why why didn't you tell me?
Well, that's obvious, isn't it?
-You're the favorite child.
-[father] Herman.
No, I understand all right.
While she enjoyed college life,
we suffered Cosmas.
That's enough, Herman.
Dad.
-Isn't there another way to settle?
-There is a way! You marry Cosmas's son.
Herman. Dad! But I was thinking of
studying to become a specialist. This--
Do you have any idea
what we've been going through for years?
You, living it up in Jakarta!
And now you're leaving us again?
You want me to look after
our father forever?
[father] Herman, that's enough!
[emotional music swells]
PEACE BE UPON YOU, FAIQ.
[Faiq] What's on your mind?
I must bury my dreams of a career.
But why?
You have applied for a scholarship
in Germany, right?
I can't.
[Faiq] Maybe it's not the right time.
If God's willing
there will be another opportunity for you.
Amen.
You will come home soon?
Soon, I will take the Hippocratic Oath.
So you became a doctor
just so I would come home?
[both laugh]
-No, of course not.
-What, then?
I just want to know if you're coming home.
-[sighs] Should I or not?
-Yeah!
[chuckles]
I'll come home in due course. God willing.
-Promise me?
-I promise.
I'm counting on it.
[Faiq chuckles]
Now, you take good care of yourself.
I gotta to go to bed now. Salaam alaikum.
Alaikum salaam.
I WAS HOPING
YOU WERE THE ONE BETROTHED TO ME
[man] From the faculty of medicine,
Miss Niyala Askiah.
Niyala graduated with a GPA score of 3.8.
[cheering]
[mouths]
KARTAJAYA UNIVERSITY GRADUATION
-Congratulations on the highest GPA score.
-Thank you, sir.
78TH KERTAJAYA UNIVERSITY GRADUATION
ACADEMIC YEAR 2023-2024
[music fades]
Father! Herman!
Thank you, Dad.
Oh!
-Congratulations!
-[Niyala] Ummi!
I'm so proud of you.
[gasps] Thank you, Ummi.
You're welcome.
Thank you for taking good care of Dad
while I was studying in Jakarta.
It's my responsibility, as a son.
I have a surprise for you.
What?
Look.
[Niyala squeals] Faiq, you're here!
-[gasps]
-[Faiq chuckles]
-Oh my God!
-I have kept my promise to you.
I can't believe you're finally here!
I promised I would be.
Congratulations.
My little sister has become a doctor now.
Thank God! [laughs]
Here. I have a graduation present
to give you.
-A present?
-For you, yes!
For me? What is it?
Go on, open it.
I'll hold this while you open it.
Okay!
Ooh! It's so beautiful!
It's a scarf.
-You like it?
-I do.
It's pretty? I knew you'd like it.
-Thank you. It's so kind!
-[chuckles]
Once again, congratulations.
It's been quite a while
since your last visit.
[father] Yes, it has.
[Faiq's mother] You'll see nothing
has really changed in all of these years.
[laughs] Okay, come on in.
Hello there, baby.
[Niyala] Hello.
[Faiq's mother] Please come on in.
I hope you're hungry.
I've cooked delicious food for everyone.
Enough to feed an army!
-We might stay out here to cool down.
-[Faiq's mother] Sure.
You cool off a while
and I'll see you inside.
-[Niyala] Thank you, Ummi.
-[Faiq] Well, I'll, uh see you in there.
Niyala.
What do you say?
[suspenseful music playing]
Oh God.
Why do you have to bring
this up right now?
I'll be embarrassed if Ummi and Faiq hear.
You know you have no choice.
[emotional music playing]
What if I refuse?
-Then they'll send Dad to prison.
-Hey!
Ummi will hear us talking.
That's enough for now. Enough.
Dad's life is in your hands.
[Niyala sobbing]
[mouthing]
[sighs]
[sighs]
Niyala, what's wrong?
I'm okay.
Okay. It's fine
if you don't want to tell me.
But did you tell God about your problems?
That's what's most important.
Yeah.
This prayer rug
has always been here
through the hardest times in my life.
Please, excuse me now.
Niyala.
Whatever is troubling your mind,
God knows what is best for you.
Sleep well, okay?
Okay, I will. Good night, then.
Niyala. Remember,
you have to set the table for three now.
-Another plate. See?
-[thunder rumbling]
[laughs] I completely forgot!
Oh, there's two more people coming.
Oh, who are they?
-[doorbell rings]
-Ah! They're here.
Get the door. Quickly. Hurry, now.
Uh, we need two more plates.
And, we'll need spoons,
forks and two glasses of water.
-Salaam alaikum.
-Peace be upon you too.
Can I help you at all?
-[Faiq] Salaam alaikum!
-Ah
-Peace be upon you too.
-Ma'am.
-Oh!
-Dear.
-Hello.
-[Faiq] It's so wet.
I should have lent you my umbrella.
-[woman 2] We have one here.
-[Faiq] Oh, thank goodness.
Sis, uh, this is Mrs. Lis, Diah's mother.
-And this is Diah.
-[thunder crashes]
-Diah.
-Niyala.
God willing, Diah will be my future wife.
[dramatic music playing]
Oh, salaam alaikum!
-Hey!
-[Lis] Salaam alaikum.
Mwah! Mwah!
My goodness, were you caught in the rain?
-[Lis] Not at all.
-Mum told you?
-Right?
-[Diah] Thank you for having us.
-[mother] Huh?
-Didn't you tell Niyala about Diah?
-Oh, I thought you said you'd tell her.
-No, I'm sure you said you would tell her.
Oh, I did? I forgot to.
-[Lis] Oh!
-Anyway, now, come in.
-Come on inside.
-[Lis] Thank you.
-[mother] Come, dear.
-[Diah] Thank you.
[thunder rumbles]
[Faiq] Okay. This is lamb
and nasi goreng la Chef Faiq.
-Enjoy.
-[all gasp]
-[Lis] Ooh!
-Mmm.
-What do you think, Ummi?
-It smells so good!
I never knew that the university
in Cairo had a culinary class!
[all laugh]
Foreign students must learn to cook.
Now, please, dig in. I want
an honest opinion from all of you.
Come on then, let's enjoy it.
Diah, I hear you've been
to Europe many times, is that right?
Actually, not that often.
[Faiq] Diah is actually an
Islamic culture researcher.
[mother] Wonderful!
She's been to Europe and many
other Arab countries in her work.
We met in a workshop in Cairo.
And we've been friends ever since.
It was fate. I'm sure.
When fate brings two people together,
there's nothing we can do.
Yes, exactly.
They're meant for each other.
-Very true.
-[Faiq's mother chuckles]
[Lis] I think the mosque we visited
yesterday is perfect for the ceremony.
What do you think? How
about we book that mosque?
-[mother] That's suitable.
-[Faiq] Oh, sis.
[Niyala and Diah] Yes?
Oh
I meant Diah, sorry.
What time do we have
to be there to check it out?
[Diah] I made the appointment
for 2:00 p.m. today.
Are you coming with us, Mom?
[serene music playing]
[whistling]
Hey!
Well, what do you know?
It's my future in-laws!
So how was Jakarta, hey?
-And my daughter-in-law?
-[father] Uh
We need more time to convince her,
please, Mr. Cosmas.
Oh, but what's there to convince her of?
You don't need to convince her!
Women, they are nothing but commodities.
Just like those fish over there. You see?
[tense music playing]
But that's not my daughter, Mr. Cosmas.
So you're saying your daughter is
expensive because she's a doctor?
If your daughter was on display here,
no one would pay very much for her.
I really don't understand you.
You know, life is like a roller coaster.
Some ups, some downs.
But you love being at the bottom.
You should feel lucky
your daughter is worth some money.
Unlike this one.
Look at his ugly face.
[scoffs]
Let's go.
[man] Yeah, boss.
[tense music swells]
[Faiq] You making fried ramen or soup?
[Niyala] Why do you ask? Do you want some?
I'm making soupy ramen.
And chili.
-I'm in!
-The chili?
[chuckles]
Coming right up.
Let's see.
Faiq.
Yeah.
Do you mind if I ask you something?
No, you can't.
Of course you can!
Since when do you need
my permission to ask anything?
Because you usually
tell me everything that's going on.
But you didn't tell me
that you're getting married.
[somber music playing]
[sets knife down]
It's not that I didn't wanna tell you
or I avoided telling you.
It just seemed to all happen so fast.
But I thought that you were a modern man.
Progressive.
It's an arranged marriage.
The right person can enter your life
in many different ways.
In this case,
it was our parents who played the part.
Importantly,
Diah has met
all the essential requirements
from our revered prophet.
She has the looks,
a good background, wealthy,
and she's very religious.
Every criteria!
What else do I need, Niyala?
[music fades]
[cicadas chirping]
[dramatic music playing]
-[whistling]
-[keys jingling]
[attacker yells]
[screams]
-[yelps]
-[panting] No!
Herman.
[roars]
Murder!
-[man 1] What happened? What happened?
-[groaning]
-Boss, you all right? He went that way!
-[man 2] What?
-Get after him!
-Let's get him!
[woman] Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables
to help breast milk production.
-[Faiq's mother] Salaam alaikum, Doctor.
-Alaikum salaam.
-I have something for you.
-[gasps] Oh my goodness!
You didn't have to bring it to me!
I could have sent someone.
-I don't mind at all.
-Thank you!
-[Niyala] Doctor?
-Ah, the beautiful young doctor.
Now, tell me, how are you?
-I'm just fine, thank you.
Thank God. Oh, how is Faiq?
-He's back home now?
-Yes, and he's doing very well.
-But I have some very big news!
-I think I know what it is!
-He's getting married, am I right?
-[laughs]
I'm right, aren't I?
-[laughs]
-Who's the lucky woman? Is it you, Niyala?
Oh, no, of course not.
They're like siblings.
No, don't be silly.
You'll just have to wait
until further notice.
Oh, I hope you'll be able to come.
-[doctor] Of course I will come!
-[both laugh]
-I can't wait for the invitation.
-[phone buzzes]
[Faiq's mother] I don't think
you'll have to wait too long.
-Um, excuse me, it's from my father.
-[Faiq's mother] Sure.
Hello there, Father.
[dramatic music playing]
SUKARAJA POLICE PRECINC[Niyala] Father?
Oh my goodness.
Why did you do that, Herman?
If you won't help us, don't dare judge us.
Mr. Herman. You're free to go.
[Niyala] What do you mean?
The charges have been dropped.
The victim's family just left.
-Come on out.
-Wait here.
Excuse me.
Are you the family
who dropped the charges?
[chuckles]
You don't remember me, do you?
[laughs]
I was the boy who bullied you
when you were little.
[gentle music playing]
-You're Roger?
-[chuckles]
Uh, why did you drop the charges?
Well, it's the least I could do.
It's very kind of you.
But, you know, he is guilty as charged.
Yes, I know.
But I hate to see
what my father is doing to your family.
I'd like to help.
Uh, thank you.
That's very kind.
I'll see you around. Salaam alaikum.
Alaikum salaam.
[tense music playing]
Your son seems to love trouble, huh?
[Niyala's father] Mr. Cosmas,
uh, I'm so sorry.
[Herman inhales]
Listen to me. If you ever do that again,
I swear to God your body will be found
lying on the floor of your own boat.
Understand?
Oh my God, my brother.
[tense music swells]
Faiq!
Faiq?
[door opens]
-[Faiq] Ummi.
-Faiq.
[Faiq] Mom! What?
-It's Niyala.
-What's happened?
Niyala is going to marry Roger.
I don't understand.
[mouthing]
Has
has she agreed to this?
[tense music swells]
[phone buzzing]
[emotional music playing]
-Hello, Faiq.
-Niyala, please, just tell me the truth.
I heard from Mom. Why are you doing this?
-I have no control over this.
-I know, I know.
But why, Niyala?
Can you, uh, at least explain
why you're doing this? Or
It's your father.
He borrowed money from that loan shark.
My God! Why didn't you tell us this?
We could have helped somehow.
I already owe so much
to you and your family.
But that that doesn't matter!
You are family.
We'll find a solution, a way out,
before you have to do this thing.
But you don't understand, it's hard.
My God, I know how to fight.
But I have to obey
what my father wants me to do, right?
But
We're talking about Roger. That Roger.
I know, I know.
Faiq, I know.
I have to go now. I must be strong.
Faiq, please pray for me to be strong.
Salaam alaikum.
Peace be upon you.
[exhales]
[sighs]
[emotional music swells]
[sighs]
[sighs]
[Faiq's mother] God is great.
[music fades]
God is great.
[sighs]
[groans]
-Ummi? Oh my God.
-[sighing]
Ummi? Oh my God!
[gasps] Ijah!
[mother gasping]
Ijah!
-Ummi? You'll be all right.
-Ma'am?
-Ummi!
-Oh my God!
-[Niyala] She just collapsed.
-[Ijah] Oh. Oh!
-[Niyala] Hold her.
-[Ijah] Yes.
-Oh my
-[Niyala] Faiq?
-Faiq, are you there?
-[Ijah] All right. Here. Oh
Oh, ma'am.
[waves breaking gently]
[music fades]
Salaam alaikum, Niyala.
Alaikum salaam.
I can
understand your frustration.
You're being forced
to marry someone you don't love.
It's late. I have to go home.
The Roger you knew has changed, Niyala.
[gentle music playing]
And who is he now?
[Roger clears throat]
I've been keeping quiet
about my feelings for you,
for some time.
I was a bad boy.
But in order to win your love,
I've worked very hard
to try to be a better man.
Give me one more chance.
And if you still
can't return my love
[sighs]
then I'll tell my father
to call off the wedding.
And we will consider
all your debt as fully paid.
What will you get from that?
In the very least I get a chance
to show you
how much I love you.
And that's more than enough for me.
All right.
I'd better leave now.
Salaam alaikum.
Alaikum salaam.
[Roger] Salaam alaikum, sir.
[cicadas chirping]
[Diah] How is Ummi?
She's getting better.
I just gave her some vitamins.
I hope that tomorrow,
she'll be back on her feet.
[chuckles]
I know she's very concerned about Niyala.
[sighs]
Well, she literally raised us
as children together.
Of course she's concerned.
[emotional music playing]
[sighs]
Let's pray for the best for Niyala.
[sighs]
[woman] And give her nutritious food.
Get well soon, dear. Take care.
-[Roger] Dr. Shinta.
-Hello.
-How are you?
-I'm well, praise God.
Doctor, meet Dr. Niyala.
-Ah, your dad's so proud of you.
-[chuckles]
It's a great pleasure to meet you.
-I'll see you again later. Goodbye.
-Okay.
-Goodbye.
-Bye.
[chuckles]
What is it? Why are you smiling?
It just reminds me of our childhood.
Way back then,
you had a dream to become a doctor,
and look at you now!
-Hmm.
-Why did you want to be a doctor?
Uh
Actually, when I was little,
I wanted to treat my mother.
But now, as an adult,
my dream now is that one day,
everyone can have healthcare.
-That's so great! [chuckles]
-Mmm.
I heard you went to university
in Melbourne?
What made you return home?
I think it's our responsibility
to take care of the village.
[poignant music playing]
[laughs]
There's no better place to help
than your own home.
HARAPAN PUBLIC HEALTH CENTERS
Uh, excuse me, Doctor.
Uh, can I borrow Roger for a minute?
-Oh, sure, go ahead.
-Thank you.
Excuse us.
[woman] This is a similar wedding gown
to the one you liked which you showed us.
And here's some more ideas
for wedding decorations.
I like it but, I think we're looking
at something simpler. Right, honey?
-Honey?
-Hmm?
What's that? Oh!
Uh, this one.
I think it should be more more glamorous.
[woman] Well, we have
a few more pictures to show you.
Let me go and get them for you.
Excuse me.
-[Faiq] Sure.
-[woman] Merci.
[poignant music continues]
Honey
I've been thinking.
The way you care about Niyala
is more than just Platonic.
I don't understand.
Well,
it's like a man who cares
about a woman he loves.
Oh!
I've never really
thought about her in that way.
You're the first
serious relationship
that I've ever had in my life.
And on top of that, of course,
we're planning for our wedding.
So if you think
that I'm making you uncomfortable
or intentionally hurting you,
or even, perhaps,
trying to make you feel a little jealous,
well, then
I must sincerely apologize.
I want our relationship to be a good one.
Yeah.
So do I. [chuckles]
[Faiq] So you don't want the fancy one?
[Diah] You were the one
who didn't want the fancy one.
[Niyala] That's all for today.
Thank you very much, everybody.
HOW TO PREVENT DENGUE HEMORRHAGIC FEVER
[woman] I'm off then, Doc.
-[Niyala] Thank you.
-[woman] You're welcome.
[gentle, emotional music playing]
Ah! Hello, Roger.
Is that for me?
Yeah. Open it.
For your computer. [chuckles]
[both chuckle]
-Hang on, then.
-Yeah.
[gasps]
A PRESENTATION FOR THE FUTURE
A HAPPY FAMILY
NIYALA HOSPITAL, 10 YEARS LATER
[both laugh]
20 YEARS LATER, DOCTOR NIYALA'S FAMILY
GROWING OLD TOGETHER, 40 YEARS LATER
ALL OF IT STARTS TODAY
Niyala.
Will you
will you marry me?
I promise, I will stay by your side always
to make all of your dreams come true.
I'm sorry, Roger.
The feeling it just isn't there yet.
But I
have started to like
the way you show your
love to me.
Thank God.
RELIGIOUS AFFAIRS OFFICE
DKI JAKARTA PROVINCE, SOUTH JAKARTA
[keyboard tapping]
What's the problem here?
You made a typo with her name.
-That's all.
-Did I?
Show me.
My fiance's name is supposed
to be spelled with an I,
but instead, you spelled it
with a Y in her name.
-[clerk] Hmm.
-I wonder if you could correct the typo?
-Come again?
-Diah's name is spelled with an I.
It's a very simple correction.
[chuckles] Why use that tone to me?
Because all you had to do
was copy from her ID--
Hey, watch your manners!
-You're in a government office.
-I understand.
And when you raise your voice like that,
well, I I find that offensive.
I'm sorry. I didn't mean to offend you.
-I just want you to correct the typo--
-Sh, sh. Wait, wait.
Honey, it's okay.
It's okay. Okay.
-So.
-Uh-huh.
-The name in my ID is written like here.
-Uh-huh.
I wonder if you would be kind enough
to please correct the typo in the form
to match the name on my ID?
If you don't mind.
That's simple and clear.
Correct it to match her ID.
That's it.
Get me a blank form like this. Hmm?
-[Diah] Very sorry for the trouble.
-[sighs] It's okay.
[paper rustling]
[clerk] Fill in the form.
-[Faiq] Can I borrow your pen?
-Here.
[Faiq] Goodness me. [sighs]
[clicks pen]
[clears throat]
Taking a long time.
[sighs]
[quizzical music playing]
Educational history?
Master's degree.
From where?
Cairo.
And in Cairo, did they give you
a multiple choice test?
Or perhaps you needed
to learn to write an essay?
Done. I'm done. Okay.
[Diah] Wait, I'll check it over.
Just a sec.
-[clerk] Did you just make a face?
-[Faiq] No.
-[clerk] It shows your disgust for me.
-[Faiq] That's just my normal face, sir.
[clerk] You don't like me at all, do you?
-It's my normal--
-Honey. Uh
-Excuse me, sir.
-Hmm?
[Diah] Whose date of birth
is June 8th, 1999?
-Oh my goodness, I
-[Diah gasps]
Niyala's?
[clerk laughing]
So you really don't remember
her date of birth?
[chuckling]
[gentle, emotional music playing]
-Let me correct it.
-[clerk] Yeah, let her do it.
You'll just keep making typos! [laughs]
Thank God, Father.
I never thought that Roger could change.
He's sweeter now.
And more mature. [laughs]
Who knows?
Some people can change a lot, I think.
Maybe it comes with
being an adult and all that. [chuckles]
[father] So, Niyala,
you don't mind if
if Mr. Cosmas schedules your wedding date
sooner than planned?
[dramatic music playing]
God willing, I'm ready.
Love can grow over time, I think.
[father] Then both of you
should now ask for the blessings
of both Ummi Ambar and Faiq.
[music fades]
[birdsong]
Faiq, this is Roger.
-[Roger] Salaam alaikum.
-Alaikum salaam.
-[Roger] How are you?
-Thank God, we're fine.
Please let me introduce Diah,
Faiq's future wife.
[Ambar] Ah, kids, you're here! Come on in.
Yes, Ummi. Shall we?
-[Faiq] After you.
-[Roger] Thank you.
Faiq. I think I've met Roger before.
Somewhere.
Oh, where from? You know him?
[Roger] Are you sure we've met?
I don't remember.
[Ambar] Diah! Faiq! Come on inside.
It's kind of you to invite me.
[Faiq] Let's go.
[Ambar] Niyala told me that you were
planning to get married.
How is it all progressing?
Yes, that's right.
But first, I should apologize in advance
about the way
Niyala and I first came to meet.
As the only son of my father,
I felt somewhat obliged
to follow my father's will.
Still, I'm overjoyed
about being betrothed to Niyala,
because now that I've met you, Ummi,
and also Faiq, and Diah,
I know where it is
that she gets her sweetness from.
Thank you.
Well, I certainly hope that
they are sincere sentiments.
Mmm. Where did you go to university?
Oh, he went
to the University of Melbourne, like you.
-[coughs]
-[Niyala] Oh!
-Diah?
-What's wrong, Diah?
-Are you all right?
-[Faiq] Are you okay?
[clears throat]
I'm fine. Just went down the wrong way.
-[laughs]
-[Ambar] Now, dig in kids. Let's eat.
[suspenseful music playing]
So have you set a date?
Uh
If all goes well, the engagement ceremony
will be on Saturday.
I hope all of you can come.
Mmm
God willing.
[both chuckle]
Hmm.
Praise God.
[emotional song in Indonesian playing]
[Ambar] Eat! You've all been staring
at the food, now it's time to eat up.
Yes, Ummi.
[sighs]
[no audible dialogue]
[song continues]
In the name of Allah.
DISCARD
[Niyala] Goodbye, Ummi.
-Peace be upon you.
-[Ambar] Peace be upon you too.
[Roger] Ummi.
-Goodbye.
-[Ambar] Goodbye. Drive safely.
-[Roger] I shall. Salaam alaikum.
-[Niyala] Bye.
-[Faiq] Niyala!
-[Niyala] Yes?
-[chuckles]
-Doctor, you forgot your scarf.
Can't have that.
You were so eager to leave us, you forgot.
Yes, I did.
You know, I've just realized.
-It looks good on you.
-[laughs]
Are you complimenting your own taste?
Oh, I'm not kidding.
I think I certainly have excellent taste.
[both chuckle]
I know, it's a pretty scarf. Very pretty.
[chuckles]
I guess I'll see you later.
Salaam alaikum.
-Alaikum salaam.
-Bye!
-Bye, Ummi.
Thank you, Faiq.
I hope, that with all of your blessing,
that I can be a good husband
and support to Niyala.
Don't ever break her heart now.
Safe trip.
-[Niyala] Bye!
-[Faiq] Take care!
[Niyala] Thank you very much
for coming with me to visit Ummi.
It was a pleasure, Niyala.
But, Niyala
Mmm?
I don't mean to offend you,
but I was watching
some of the body language
between you and Faiq.
-And there were things that were--
-I don't understand.
Oh! Are you jealous?
Is that what it is? [laughs]
Oh. Goodness me.
Faiq and I, we're just like siblings.
Yeah, I get that.
-But I think you should keep in mind--
-Oh my God, Roger, we're like siblings.
-It's not like that. I--
-Don't interrupt when I'm talking to you!
[dramatic music playing]
Are you even listening?
[softly] My God. My God.
Niyala.
Niyala, I'm so sorry.
Niyala, I
I shouldn't have yelled like that.
I I overreacted.
[music fades]
What's going on, Diah?
[gasps] Nothing. I'm fine.
[Lis] What is it?
-Are you sure you're okay?
-Mmm.
-[knocking at door]
-[Faiq] Hello there.
-Alaikum salaam.
-[Faiq] Mom.
Faiq. Diah has been waiting up for you.
Oh, I know. I'm sorry, there was traffic.
It's okay. Sit yourself down now.
You can both talk your heads off here!
I'll be up in my room, okay?
[Faiq] What's this about?
My instinct was right.
I met Roger several times
when I was in Melbourne.
[suspenseful music playing]
But I remember one day,
he just disappeared.
They said he was involved
in a criminal case.
What kind of case?
It was
a rape case.
Oh my God.
Uh
You sure about this?
I can't confirm about the rape,
but I did know he was dating this girl.
You need to take a look at this here.
Look.
Look.
[Roger] Here, let me.
Niyala.
Niyala, please wait.
You're still mad at me.
[sighs]
You asked me to open my heart to you.
But I'm afraid
you've just made it harder
for me to love you.
Niyala, wait. Wait.
I'm sorry.
I didn't mean it.
I was taught
to behave like that by my father.
I didn't learn any other way.
Please, Niyala, give me one more chance.
Let me be very clear.
Faiq and I are close
because he's done nothing
but be sweet to me.
-Excuse me.
-Niyala.
Niyala!
[poignant music playing]
KEEP
Salaam alaikum.
[Herman] Alaikum salaam.
-Do you want me to heat the soup?
-No, I'm good.
But thank you.
What did you say?
Thank you.
Do you want to sit with me while I eat?
People in the village,
they say you're smart.
Born with good fortune.
While I
should be grateful
for having been born at all.
Everybody but you sees me as a deadbeat.
I turned against you.
I was blinded by jealousy.
Forgive me.
CEMPAKA LESTARI DAUGHTER OF M. RUKHYABIRTH: DEC 17, 1977 - DEATH: AUG 8, 2008
[Niyala] Mother
How are you?
I've
received a marriage proposal, Mother.
[poignant music continues]
Can I have your blessings?
I hope everything goes well.
I hope this is the best for me,
for Father,
and for Herman.
I believe
God has a beautiful plan for us.
[knocking at door]
Come in.
-Niyala! Ah!
-Ummi!
[laughs] Now, now, don't get up.
[sighs]
Such a pretty girl.
Oh, but why so tense?
Are you nervous, honey?
Everything's gonna be just fine.
Niyala?
Do you have a minute?
Uh, sure, you two chat.
I'll just be outside helping with things.
What's on your mind?
Can we talk outside?
With Faiq?
[Faiq] I know this is not a good time
to tell you this, but
Um [clears throat]
It's about Roger.
[somber music playing]
We just learned the truth
about what happened to Roger
when he was in Australia.
I don't like telling you this, but
Excuse me, uh I'm sorry,
but are you Sherin?
Yes?
I'm Faiq. I'm the person who called you.
-I'm sorry, I don't
-Please.
I just need a minute
of your time, that's all.
I'm sorry. I just want to be left alone.
So, please can you respect my privacy?
[Diah] Miss.
Miss.
Miss Sherin.
[sighs shakily]
I know it can often be painful
to dig up the past.
But please,
we're trying to help another woman.
[Faiq] Sherin finally told us
that Roger forced himself on her.
In fact, Roger raped Sherin.
And now, she's carrying his child.
Oh my God. My goodness.
[gasps]
Wh
Faiq,
Diah
All of this time, I have been trying
so hard to understand
and to believe in Roger.
And what you have just told me
makes that so much harder.
But I have no choice now.
I can't change my decision.
-That's not my intention at all.
-[Niyala] But--
-We're concerned about your future.
-I know.
I I know who he is.
I do know.
-But
-Honey.
It's okay.
Niyala.
I'm sorry we had
to be the bearers of the truth.
Just keep me in your thoughts.
And pray for me
to help me
be strong.
[gasps shakily]
I should get ready for the ceremony.
Excuse me.
Niyala
[somber, emotional music swells]
[Cosmas] Hello and welcome, everybody.
We're here today to ask
if Mr. Rusli's daughter
agrees to the marriage proposal
of our son.
[somber, emotional music continues]
-Yes, I do.
-[woman 1] Congratulations!
-[man 1] Ah! Congratulations.
-[applause]
-[man 2] Thank God!
-[man 1 chuckles] Yes!
[Cosmas] Thanks be to God!
-So the engagement is now official.
-[man 2] Praise God!
[Cosmas] And let's hope it will soon
be followed by a wedding ceremony.
-[man 3] Amen!
-[woman 2] Amen!
[Cosmas] Now you may place
the ring on her hand.
-Praise Allah!
-[all] Praise Allah!
Praise God!
[Cosmas] Now, before
we all move on to the banquet,
let me share with you
another exciting piece of news.
God willing, my son Roger
is going to be a candidate
for the very important position
of village leader!
-[gasps and laughter]
-[Cosmas] How about that?
[woman 3] Ah!
[Cosmas] Yes, please all pray for him
and I trust you will all
support his campaign
for a better future for our village.
-[woman 3] Ah!
-[man 3] Amen!
[applause]
[Cosmas] And now it's time
for us all to celebrate!
Let's eat!
[laughs]
[music fades]
[wistful music playing]
What is it, Niyala?
I want to ask something.
I remember when you asked me
to give myself a chance
to learn to love you,
and you said that you loved me.
But why, then,
did you choose to keep secrets from me?
You and your father
seemed more excited
about your new candidacy
than about our engagement.
Niyala,
me running
for the village leader's position
is all my father's idea.
I didn't know anything about it.
Whether I'm running or not,
it doesn't change any of my
my feelings that I have for you.
You know I still love you!
You have to prove that to me.
Love is about actions!
I'm showing you the proof now!
How are you doing that?
By keeping secrets from me? Huh?
Fine, I know he controls you.
But he must have told you.
So why didn't you tell me?
Sherin.
[dramatic music playing]
Is it true that you raped her?
You got her pregnant?
And now you have a child with her?
Is it true?
-Is it?
-Yes!
Yes, I have a child with her!
But it's not true. I never raped her.
Why didn't you tell me?
Why did I have to hear it
from lots of other people?
Because that's my disgraceful past.
Do you think that I don't blame myself
every day for that mistake? Huh?
To this day, I carry that guilt with me.
I still can't forgive myself.
I have a disgraceful past,
but I'm a changed person.
But that shameful chapter is closed.
Now, it is just between me and God.
But if you won't ever
change your mind about me,
then it's out of my control,
and I'll leave it to God.
[wistful music swells]
[laughter]
[Cosmas] You've built
the healthcare center,
and you've rebuilt the prayer house!
And now, you're on the verge of marrying
the very first female doctor
of our village!
The pride of the village!
[laughs]
You know, Niyala is pious,
and very religious.
I only have to say the word "God"
and she agrees.
[chuckling]
That's my boy!
[Cosmas continues laughing]
[birdsong]
[music fades]
[poignant music playing]
DISCARD
[man] Centuries ago,
long before the sea met the sky,
God already chose
who your partner in life would be.
You mustn't worry if you think
you have already taken the correct steps.
First get to know her.
Seek guidance from God.
Secondly,
the difference between ta'aruf and dating?
What is it?
Ta'aruf is to know the mind.
Dating is to know the body.
-[chuckles]
-And it's forbidden.
-But you have doubts?
-Um
I'm doing my best to follow
the guidelines you've talked about.
But I still have doubts.
I'm afraid that one day,
somebody's heart will be hurt.
So, you do have doubts.
I won't refer to the book,
because you may have
more knowledge than I.
-A Cairo graduate.
-[laughs]
-Geography does not determine wisdom.
-Yes.
-I still need counsel and your guidance.
-Indeed. Here's a simple solution.
Let go of things that make you unsure,
and embrace things
where you have no doubt.
It's our prophet's quotation.
Look inside your heart.
Your heart will not lie to you.
And, if in doubt,
you must rethink and not move forward.
Okay?
God does not err, only humans do.
If you leave your sandals there,
someone may take them.
-God makes no mistakes.
-[laughs]
-May peace be upon you.
-May peace be upon you too.
[emotional music playing]
[Faiq] Oh God
I thank You for the gift of love.
The most beautiful and powerful feeling.
[Niyala] Everything I feel,
it came from You, God.
Whatever it is that I feel
[music intensifies]
[Diah] Oh God,
if You doubt
that I really understand love,
then please guide me, God.
[Faiq] Please guide me to give
the right person my sincere love.
The love that came from You.
[Niyala gasps]
I just want
to please You.
[Faiq] I'm still seeking Your guidance
to illuminate the path of love.
[Diah] If You think I'm selfish
and I've been expecting
a return on every gift,
guide me to be selfless,
to give unconditionally,
and to love
without measuring the sacrifice.
[Niyala] If I must love someone,
please help me to find the strength
so I can love them with all my heart,
and without feeling heartbroken.
-[man] Watch your step.
-[child coughing]
[man] Hurry, honey.
Hey, get the door. Knock.
-[woman] Anyone home?
-[girl coughing]
-Are you there?
-Stay with me, baby.
-Oh, Doctor. Please help.
-Salaam alaikum.
Doctor, please help my daughter.
I beg you. Please.
-[coughing]
-How long has she had this fever for?
-It's been five days, Doctor.
-[Niyala] Oh.
Wait a minute.
Did you see sores on her gums
or a nosebleed?
-[girl coughing]
-No, none of that.
Okay. Wait, I won't be long.
-Sit her down.
-[father] Yes, thank you. Here we go.
-[mother] Come here, baby. Slow, honey.
-[father] Gently. Easy.
[mother] You're gonna be okay.
The doctor's here.
Everything's gonna be okay.
-[girl gasping]
-Hello, Dr. Shinta.
Doctor, I have a child here.
Suspected dengue fever.
I think she's going into shock.
-She needs to be admitted immediately.
-[mother] Oh my God, this is so bad.
[Niyala] Do you know someone
who can donate platelets?
That's good.
[sighs] Yes, Doctor. Thank you so much.
-Okay. We need a vehicle to transport her.
-What do we do?
-Right away.
-[Niyala] Hurry.
-[father] I'll be back.
-[mother] Be careful, dear.
-[Niyala] Now, then, let me take a look.
-[girl gasping]
[birdsong]
[woman] Thank God,
her platelet count is increasing.
You know, she almost didn't make it.
If Doctor Niyala wasn't there
and did the right thing, well, who knows?
But I'm very glad to tell you that Putri
is no longer in a critical condition.
All she needs to do is eat some food,
and she will get better, okay?
-Thank you. You hear what the doctor said?
-There. Another?
-[father] Eat up.
-[mother] Another mouthful.
That's my girl.
-[doctor] You must excuse me. Bye, then.
-Okay. Thank you, Doctor.
-Thank God she's okay.
-Yes. Thank you, Doctor.
-Thank you, Doctor.
-You're very welcome.
HARAPAN PUBLIC HEALTH CENTERS
-Please send me the file when you can.
-Yeah.
[father] Hello, Doctor?
[Niyala] Mr. Dadang.
Uh, you go on ahead, okay?
-Okay, Doc.
-Bye.
What can I do for you? Putri? Is she okay?
Thank God, she's getting better every day.
-Thank God.
-Uh
I know if I tell you about this, Doctor,
I will be risking my own life.
Oh my God!
But what are you talking about?
[suspenseful music playing]
Roger has been planning this all along.
I am willing to be called as a witness
against Mr. Cosmas and Roger.
What crimes?
Roger and his father have been
using you all this time
so he can be village leader.
Not many people from the village
can get higher education,
let alone the chance to become a doctor.
Marrying you will help his election.
Oh God!
That includes the boat
he sank deliberately.
[gasps]
He did that to pressure your father
to arrange a marriage
between you and Roger.
Oh God. Help.
I'm so sorry.
-Excuse me, Doctor.
-Yeah.
[suspenseful music swells]
[somber music playing]
[sighs]
[phone ringing]
[Faiq] Ummi.
Mom.
Salaam alaikum, Ummi.
Alaikum salaam, Niyala. It's Faiq!
-[gasps]
-Are you okay?
Oh!
-Niyala. What's wrong?
-[sobbing]
Niyala, what's wrong?
Tell me what's happening. Are you okay?
I should have believed you.
Niyala, you okay? Niyala!
[sobs] Please forgive me. I'm sorry.
[crying]
[continues sobbing]
-I want you to take care of this.
-Yes, sir.
[music fades]
Niyala.
[tense music playing]
-Here.
-Thank you, sir.
[Roger] Hi!
What are you doing here?
-What is it?
-I want to call off our wedding.
-You what?
-You told me you're just a victim!
You told me you had no choice,
and I believed in you!
What are you talking about?
You fooled my family
and endangered my family members!
You even took advantage
of my father's situation!
-And all this time you've been playing us!
-Niyala, listen. We can talk about this.
-Yeah? Niyala--
-Let go!
-Niyala--
-Let me go!
[menacing music playing]
Come here! Now what?
If you want to call off the wedding,
I will put you
and the rest of your family in jail.
No, I'll be the one to send you to prison!
-You talk too much. Shut up.
-Somebody help me!
-[Niyala screams] Help!
-[Roger] Get here!
-[Niyala yelps]
-[Roger grunts]
[both grunt]
-[Roger grunts]
-[Niyala gasps]
[yelps]
Help!
-Nobody can hear your screams.
-[screams]
Help!
I told you to shut up.
Your life is now in my hands.
I may decide to kill you.
Probably, I should.
-Would you prefer to end up like Sherin?
-[gasps]
[screams]
-Get off her! Hey!
-[screams]
[both men grunting]
-I'm okay. Oh my God, he's crazy!
-You okay?
[menacing music intensifies]
Oh my God, Faiq!
[both grunting]
[knife clatters]
-[Roger yells]
-[Niyala] Faiq!
[Roger gasps]
[yelling]
Faiq, watch out!
[grunts]
-[Roger yells]
-Faiq!
-[Herman] Niyala, don't! Don't!
-[Roger yelling]
-[Faiq yells]
-[Niyala] Stop! Stop it!
-[Faiq yelling]
-[Herman] Niyala!
-That's enough. Come on, that's enough.
-[Faiq gasping]
-[Herman groans]
-[Niyala] Faiq, are you okay?
-[panting]
-Herman.
-[panting] Are you hurt?
-No.
[somber music playing]
POLICE
Get him in the car.
At least I didn't step on anyone else
to stay at the top like you.
[chuckles]
-In the car.
-[engine starts]
[somber music swells]
[mouths]
[sighs]
[birdsong]
[music fades]
Why did I even bother looking for you
around the village,
when I knew exactly
that I'd find you here?
Back then, you gave me this prayer rug
when you saw me at my mother's grave
and I was crying.
Since then,
it has never left my side.
If
I was afraid
for my father's safety
when he went out to sea,
or if I missed my mother
I was grateful
to have a mother figure like Ummi.
[emotional music playing]
I want to apologize to you
for expecting
more than that from you.
I wasn't grateful enough
for how you cared about me
as a brother, and I let this feeling grow.
Thank you, Faiq.
[Faiq] This is yours.
I never take back any gift
I have given to someone.
Goodbye.
Salaam alaikum.
Alaikum salaam.
[Niyala] I once read a storybook.
It was about people who demand love.
When you were brought
into the world by love,
in the end,
you'll find an infinite sea of love.
The book talks about
how people tie themselves in knots
and hurt themselves
chasing and demanding love
from people around them.
But I still believe
if love knocks on your door,
then it's no accident.
Because God sent it your way.
-[Dr. Shinta] Hi!
-Hello.
-Lovely to see you.
-How are you?
[Niyala] And because it's true love
I want you to have this.
I will embrace it.
An invitation.
[Dr. Shinta] And delivered
personally by you.
Even though he doesn't
feel the same about me.
As sure as the sun,
the moon,
and the stars shining in the sky,
as certain as the wind blows,
and as forever
as the rivers flowing to the sea,
the sea, like an eternal friend,
listens without judgement
to our deepest secrets,
because the sun,
the moon,
the stars,
the river and the sea,
know that one day, in the end,
you'll reach an endless ocean
called
love.
-[officiant] Is everybody ready?
-[man] Yes, sir.
[Faiq] We're ready.
[officiant] Okay,
let's start the ceremony.
Yes, we're ready.
In the name of Allah,
do you, Muhammed Faiq al-Husaini,
son of Abdullah Husni,
take Diah Pramestaningrum,
daughter of Suprapto,
in exchange for a dowry in the amount
of 15 million rupiah and 20 grams of gold?
-Such amount to be paid in cash.
-[door opens]
[Dr. Shinta] Wait!
[somber music playing]
Excuse me, ladies and gentlemen.
I'm sorry to interrupt.
Mrs. Lis, this concerns you.
What's going on?
Do you remember when
you visited Dr. Mutia's clinic
to get the donated breast milk?
Yes.
[sighs]
DR. MUTIA'S LACTATION CLINIC
BREAST MILK DONOR CONTRACThe breast milk that was donated to Diah
was from Mrs. Ambar Atmaranti.
So Faiq and Diah
are not allowed to be married.
[officiant] Under Islamic law,
a marriage between a man and a woman
who had received breast milk
from the same woman,
are not permitted to marry,
because they're tied by blood.
[somber music swells]
[music subsides]
[birdsong]
I remember the day when
you told me that I am your first love.
But it looks like
you found your true love
long before you had ever met me.
Don't bottle up your feelings
toward Niyala for too long.
I can see just how beautiful
your love together is.
Trust in God's timing.
He will always answer our prayers.
I wish you both happiness.
Salaam alaikum.
[music swells]
[music fades]
Peace be upon you, Ambu.
Forgive me if I don't come often.
But wherever I happen to be,
I always pray for you, Ambu.
I'd like to ask permission of you.
I need to say something to Niyala.
[emotional music playing]
I
don't really know how long I've had
this feeling in my heart.
It's possible
from the first time I cheered you up here.
Or maybe
from when I had to leave you
during those years when I was in Cairo.
I can't recall.
But one thing is sure.
I couldn't sleep soundly
until I was absolutely sure
that you were home and that you were safe.
I couldn't enjoy my food if I didn't
know what you had eaten that day.
I couldn't focus on my studies, either,
if I didn't know how
you were getting along in your training.
And another thing.
My heart was broken when I found out
you were getting married.
God put the tiny seed in my heart
without me even noticing it.
I love you, Niyala.
And it's not platonic,
it's hard to understand.
[gasps]
[Faiq sighs shakily]
Will you
will you marry me?
I promise to love you always.
I'll keep my promise to ambu
to always keep you safe.
For as long as God allows.
[gasps]
Oh, thank God!
Don't thank God yet.
I didn't say yes.
I thought silence denoted consent?
According to our prophet,
a woman's silence is
considered as consent.
[laughs]
-You're sneaky!
-[both chuckle]
So what do you say?
-Yes?
-Yes.
-[giggles]
-[gasps] Allah be praised!
Oh!
[romantic music swells]
[Niyala] Through all these years,
I've learned to believe
that fate is just a veil
covering the hidden secret of our lives.
Whatever God has planned for me,
I don't need to understand.
I just need to trust in His plan for me.
Fate has finally shown its hand.
[inaudible]
[Niyala] It has opened my eyes
to its beauty.
So I may turn a page
and move forward with my life.
I know now that I don't need
to question His judgement.
Because whatever His plan is for me,
it always brings happiness in the end.
[romantic music continues]
[music fades]
[gentle ballad playing]
[lyrics in Indonesian]
[music fades]