MENGABDI TANPA PASTI (A DEDICATION WITHOUT CERTAINTY)
Directed by Geraldo El Doken
Indonesia · 2026 · 20 min 11 sec · human-interest documentary
Submitted to RTV International Film Festival 2026Synopsis
**MENGABDI TANPA PASTI** *Mengabdi Tanpa Pasti* is a human-interest documentary that follows the life of Ibu Yuyun, a kindergarten honorary teacher at BA Aisyiyah Mayungan 1 who has devoted decades to educating young children. Every day, she begins her routine at home by caring for her elderly mother before walking to school to teach. Behind the cheerful atmosphere of the classroom lies another reality: after teaching, she returns home to manage household responsibilities, care for her mother, run a small shop, and support her family on a very limited income. Through intimate observations and interviews with Ibu Yuyun, a parent, and the school principal, the film portrays the everyday reality of an honorary kindergarten teacher whose dedication continues despite economic uncertainty. *Mengabdi Tanpa Pasti* is a portrait of devotion that may not always offer certainty, but continues to bring hope to the next generation.
About the film
**MENGABDI TANPA PASTI** For decades, Ibu Yuyun has dedicated her life to educating young children as an honorary kindergarten teacher at BA Aisyiyah Mayungan 1. Her days begin long before she enters the classroom. At home, she takes care of her elderly mother and manages the responsibilities of her household before walking to school to teach. Inside the classroom, Ibu Yuyun becomes a patient and caring figure for her students. She accompanies them as they learn, play, pray, recognize letters and numbers, and explore the world around them. The cheerful activities of the children reveal the important role of kindergarten teachers as the foundation of early childhood education. Yet behind this warmth lies a personal struggle that is rarely seen. When the school day ends, Ibu Yuyun's responsibilities continue. She returns home to take care of her mother, manage household needs, run a small shop in front of her house, and carefully manage her family's limited finances. Her income as an honorary teacher remains far from sufficient when compared with the responsibilities she carries. Nevertheless, she continues to teach and remains committed to her profession because of her love for education and the children she teaches. Through observational footage and intimate interviews with Ibu Yuyun, a parent, and the school principal, *Mengabdi Tanpa Pasti* explores the relationship between dedication, responsibility, and uncertainty. Rather than portraying Ibu Yuyun solely through hardship, the film observes the strength and meaning she finds in continuing her work. The documentary offers a glimpse into the everyday life of an honorary kindergarten teacher whose contribution extends beyond the classroom. Her story reflects a broader reality faced by many educators who continue to serve despite limited economic security. Ultimately, *Mengabdi Tanpa Pasti* is a quiet portrait of devotion—of someone who continues to teach, care, and give hope to children even when her own future remains uncertain.
Director(s)
**Geraldo El Doken** is an Indonesian filmmaker and visual storyteller born in Jakarta on January 15, 2001. He recently completed his undergraduate studies in Communication Science at Universitas AMIKOM Yogyakarta. His work in filmmaking spans several roles, including directing, directing of photography, camera operation, gaffing, lighting, and editing. Through these experiences, he has developed a strong interest in visual storytelling and the collaborative process of bringing stories to the screen. Geraldo previously directed the short film *Sekala Saya* and worked as a Unit Manager for the music video *Romantic Sunday* by Lostineden. In 2026, he directed *Mengabdi Tanpa Pasti*, a human-interest documentary that follows the life of an honorary kindergarten teacher who continues to dedicate herself to education while navigating the uncertainties of everyday life. Through his work, Geraldo is interested in exploring human stories and portraying personal realities through an intimate and grounded cinematic approach.
Trailer
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Film stills
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RTV International Film Festival — Inaugural Online Edition · 2026