Overview
This is a retelling of the Indonesian folktale of Malin Kundang, a boy from a poor coastal village who becomes wealthy but denies his mother, leading to his tragic transformation into stone.
Malin Kundang's Early Life
- Malin Kundang lived with his poor parents in a small, arid coastal village.
- The village was struggling; many people had left to seek better lives in the city.
- Malin spent his days playing and mistreating the family's only chicken.
Father Leaves for a Better Life
- Malin's father decided to migrate abroad seeking prosperity and left the family.
- Malin and his mother remained, facing increasing hardship and poverty.
- Malin's mother worked hard to support them, selling goods in the village.
Malin's Wound and Growth
- Malin injured his arm while playing, leaving a permanent scar.
- Years passed, and Malin grew into a strong and handsome young man.
- He became restless and desired to seek fortune elsewhere.
Malin Departs on His Journey
- Malin asked his mother for permission to travel overseas like his father.
- Despite her fears, Malin promised to return rich and take care of her.
- Malin secretly boarded a ship and set out to sea.
Pirate Attack and New Beginnings
- Pirates attacked the ship; Malin survived by hiding in a chest.
- He washed ashore near a prosperous village with a large port.
- Malin started working hard and focused only on becoming wealthy.
Malin's Success
- Through perseverance, Malin became wealthy, owning a large ship and many crew members.
- He eventually married and lived a prosperous life.
Return and Denial of His Mother
- Malin returned to his home village with his wife.
- His mother recognized him and tried to greet him at the harbor.
- Ashamed of his origins, Malin denied knowing his mother, claiming she was a beggar.
Mother's Curse and Malin's Fate
- Heartbroken, his mother prayed to God to punish Malin if he was truly her son.
- Thunder roared, and Malin was turned to stone as a result of the curse.
- Malin regretted his actions too late, realizing the consequences of denying his mother.
Moral of the Story
- The tale warns against denying one’s origins and disrespecting one's parents.