"Women from Rote Island" Steps to the Oscars: The Excitement of Indonesian Cinema

JAKARTA – Minister of Culture Fadli Zon attended the pre-screening event of the film Women from Rote Island, directed by Jeremias Nyangoen, which has been selected to represent Indonesia at the prestigious 97th Academy Awards. The film will compete in the Best International Feature Film category, being one of the 85 best films that have entered the initial nomination stage.

Fadli Zon expressed his pride in this achievement. According to him, this is a historic moment for Indonesian cinema. "The selection of Women from Rote Island is a recognition from the world of the quality and potential of our filmmakers' works," said Fadli.

The film not only showcases the beauty of Indonesian culture but also voices universal values that can be accepted in various parts of the world.

"Women from Rote Island tells the story of the struggles of women from Rote Island, East Nusa Tenggara, as a reflection of the spirit and innovation of Indonesian filmmakers," he added.

Fadli Zon emphasized that the government is committed to supporting the best works of the nation's children. He stated that film is a very powerful medium to tell the beauty, values, and identity of the nation to the world. The Ministry of Culture will continue to advance national cinema as one of the pillars of culture," he explained.

The success of Women from Rote Island, Fadli added, symbolizes the collective hard work and dedication of all those in the film industry. Fadli also gave special appreciation to the film for successfully showcasing the cultural richness of Rote Island, such as ikat weaving and sasando music.

"The beauty of this tradition, wrapped in values such as solidarity, diversity, and deliberation, makes Women from Rote Island worthy of a place on the Oscar stage," he said.

Fadli Zon invited the public to give full support to Women from Rote Island.

"Let us show our pride and solidarity. Use the hashtags #IndonesiaGoesToOscar and #RepresentationMatters to support this work and inspire other Indonesian filmmakers," he concluded.

With this significant step, Women from Rote Island not only brings Indonesia's name to the international stage but also reinforces the role of film as a cultural window of the nation that connects the world.

Synopsis of Women from Rote Island

Women from Rote Island tells the poignant and challenging journey of a family on Rote Island, East Nusa Tenggara. The story centers on Orpa (Merlinda Dessy Adoe), a single mother who must face heavy trials after the death of her husband, Abram. In deep mourning, Orpa decides to postpone Abram's funeral, hoping her eldest daughter, Martha (Irma Novita Rihi), who works as an Indonesian migrant worker (TKI) in Malaysia, can return home.

The eight-day wait finally ends with Martha's return. However, Orpa's happiness quickly turns to worry. Martha returns in a concerning condition: her body is covered in wounds, her mental state is shaken, and her spirit seems fragile. Behind her changed appearance lies a dark story—Martha has become a victim of sexual violence by her employer in Malaysia.

Martha's return to her hometown does not end her suffering. She becomes a victim of sexual violence again, this time by people in her own community. This situation exacerbates the stigma faced by her family. Orpa and her three daughters face discrimination from their extended family and the surrounding community, who do not understand the trauma Martha has experienced.

The film depicts the struggles of Rote women who seek justice amid deeply rooted patriarchal culture. Women from Rote Island is an ode to the strength and resilience of women fighting against violence, discrimination, and injustice.

Achievements and Journey of the Film

This debut work by director Jeremias Nyangoen has received widespread acclaim for its touching narrative and stunning cinematography. Previously, Jeremias was known as the screenwriter for the films Denias, Senandung di Atas Awan (2006) and Serdadu Kumbang (2011).

Starring Merlinda Dessy Adoe, Irma Novita Rihi, Van Jhoov, and supported by Bani Sallum Ratu Ke, Maria Dona Ines, and Leonard Leo Leba, the film showcases authentic local talent.

At the 2023 Indonesian Film Festival (FFI), Women from Rote Island achieved remarkable success with 14 nominations and brought home four prestigious awards, including Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, Best Cinematography Director, and Best Feature Film.

Before its regular release in Indonesian cinemas, the film has traveled to various international festivals, including the Busan International Film Festival 2023, Asian Film Festival Barcelona 2023, and QCinema International Film Festival 2023 in the Philippines.

Women from Rote Island is a testament to the strong potential of Indonesian cinema in addressing humanitarian issues with sensitivity and depth. This film not only voices the beauty of Rote Island's culture but also conveys a universal message about strength, hope, and the struggles of women.[*]