Led by Brunei Darussalam’s only National Geographic Explorer Joshua Belayan, the film explores the making, meaning, and legacy of Brunei’s traditional palm sugar Gula Anau. The documentary journeys across locations in Brunei Darussalam and Limbang 林夢 (Sarawak 砂拉越, Malaysia) to document not only the craft of tapping Nipah palm sap and producing Gula Anau, but also the people, culture and ecosystems anchored in the mangrove landscapes. Through this cross-border Borneo perspective, the film illuminates how food, land and livelihoods interplay; and how a single ingredient carries deep heritage while facing ecological and economic pressures.
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Ekosistem Rasa: The Gula Anau Story
Brunei Darussalam / 2025 / Malay, Kedayan and English / 60'
BIOGRAPHY
Director | Syafi Halim
Syafi Halim is a Bruneian filmmaker and founder of New Wave Films, known for telling authentic stories that highlight local identity and culture. His work spans award-winning films, documentaries, and collaborations with international platforms, including a National Geographic–funded project. His documentary Wujud recently won Best Borneo Documentary at AIFFA 2025 and is a strong advocate for empowering young creatives.