Sang Guru

(title translation: The Teacher)

Topaz is a poor but honest teacher but the price of honesty keeps being bargained. First, Mursalin, the principal, considers that education can be bought. So Topaz is fired because a student’s parent complains about the child’s bad report card and Mursalin wants to have the numbers upgraded. Topaz falls into another trap, Inge Rosa, whose child takes private lessons with Topaz. She is the mistress of Kunto, a businessman who lives from corrupt dealings with government officials. So Topaz is used in Kunto’s company. After a year, Kunto knows all the tricks of the trade and he becomes a real businessman in a more legitimate way, while preparing himself to face Kunto and Inge. When the showdown happens, Topaz is ready with everything and Kunto is defenceless to face the lawsuit. Inge crumbles but Topaz needs her as his love for her has grown. Surprisingly, his students gather in the company’s grounds, singing The Teacher song that reminds him of his lessons on manners. Topaz has found himself, his conscience and his place among his students. It’s a complete story of social problems and somehow it’s effective. The song finale may be regarded as a beautiful hymn to teachers.