| by Arfan Sabran Two Islands Digital (PT Dua Pulau Digital) | 73’&52’ | Indonesia | 2022 | 2K | Ininnawa: An Island Calling explores the difficulties the world’s largest archipelago faces in providing health care. An out of sight, out of mind approach has failed her people. It is a story of obligation and sacrifice, told through a family dedicating their lives to this pursuit in the remote islands of the Flores Sea. Mimi is a mother of two who until recently had left her first child at school in the city and worked on the islands, more than 30 hours sea travel from South Sulawesi, together with her youngest child and under the mentorship of her mother Rabiah. As veteran nurse Rabiah begins retirement, and prepares to pass the baton to Mimi, she finds herself once more on the islands in an unofficial caretaker role, while Mimi gives birth to her 3rd child and the Covid pandemic limits access to the islands.
Rabiah and Mimi’s stories reveal issues that are important and timely to address. 15 years ago, Indonesia’s government pledged to help the many 1000’s of people living remotely, to have better access to quality medical care. This has not transpired. And with a shortage of willing and able workers, options for nurses are proving few. Mimi’s challenges, her fears and anxiety, unfold on screen as she begins her work as an independent remote area nurse. But for how long can Mimi stay strong and separate from her young family? And how long can Rabiah resist the call of her islands.
|