IPB University Lecturer Produces Film Pengin Hijrah, Highlights the Reality of Teenagers Searching for Identity
The film Pengin Hijrah officially premiered on Thursday (10/30) and successfully captured the attention and enthusiasm of academics, students, and religious film enthusiasts.
Starring Steffi Zamora, Endy Arfian, and Daffa Wardhana, the film tells the story of teenagers’ spiritual journey in search of their identity, facing modern social interactions, and finding the true meaning of hijrah—a journey from doubt to conviction, from anxiety to goodness.
Budi Yulianto, producer of Pengin Hijrah and lecturer at IPB University’s School of Business, said that the film was born out of a desire to present entertainment that also contains a moral message.
According to him, Pengin Hijrah depicts the reality of today’s teenagers who are in the process of improving themselves, searching for direction in life, and discovering the true meaning of hijrah.
“We want to present a film that is close to the real lives of the younger generation. Pengin Hijrah is a mirror for anyone who is in the process of self-improvement. The message is simple yet powerful: that everyone can change for the better, as long as they are willing to start and not give up halfway,” said Budi Yulianto.
Literacy Synergy
The Rector of IPB University, Prof Arif Satria, also gave his full support to the collaboration between the worlds of education, literacy, and film, which was realized through the film Pengin Hijrah.
The film, which was also adapted into a novel published by IPB Press through the Insan Pustaka Berkreasi imprint, is a concrete example of how educational values can be packaged in a creative and inspiring way.
“IPB University encourages the younger generation to dare to express positive ideas and values through various mediums. Pengin Hijrah proves that literacy is not only present on the pages of books, but can also come to life on the big screen and touch the hearts of the wider community.”
“We hope that collaborations like this can give birth to more educational, inspiring, and positively impactful works,” said the Rector.
Meanwhile, Dr Alfian Helmi, Director of Cooperation, Communication, and Marketing at IPB University, emphasized that IPB Press’ involvement in the film Pengin Hijrah is a tangible manifestation of the role of university presses in expanding the reach of literacy through cross-media collaboration.
“IPB Press not only publishes academic works but also creates space for living literacy that is close to the community. Through collaborations like Pengin Hijrah, we see how books and films complement each other. Films provide emotional experiences that move us, while books foster deep understanding through the process of reading and imagination,” said Dr Helmi.
Full of Wisdom
During the simultaneous premiere screening in theaters across Indonesia, the Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Prof Brian Yuliarto, was present to express his appreciation for this work. According to him, Pengin Hijrah is not just a film, but a reflection of the dynamic lives and learning experiences of today’s students.
“This film is excellent, with a storyline centered on students, making it highly relevant to their experiences. It offers many lessons and wisdom on how to overcome problems, maintain friendships, and persistently pursue aspirations,” he said.
Prof Brian continued, “I highly recommend my fellow students to watch this film. Pengin Hijrah can inspire students not to give up easily, to stay motivated, and to always strive for the greater good.”
Pengin Hijrah is now showing in cinemas across Indonesia, while its novel adaptation has been published by IPB Press and is available at various bookstores and official online platforms. (*/Rz) (IAAS/NRA)
