A heartbreaking yet moving video from Konawe, Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia, has gone viral after showing a husband choosing dignity and peace over anger when faced with betrayal.
The emotional handover
In the viral clip, the husband (SRH) can be seen taking part in a traditional ceremony called Mowea Sarapu.
Through this ceremony, he formally handed over his wife (NH) to her lover in front of community leaders and both families.
The event took place in Puudombi Village, North Tongauna District, Konawe, on Sept 20, 2025.
As reported by TribunNews, SRH and NH had been married for five years before the incident.
Rather than lashing out or seeking legal punishment, SRH remained composed. He prayed for his wife and even addressed her lover with heartfelt words.
Since we are already divorced in religion, I now hand her over to you. Take care of her. She was never happy with me,” he said.
His words quickly drew sympathy online, with many netizens praising his composure and strength in the face of betrayal.
What is Mowea Sarapu?
Mowea Sarapu is a traditional Tolaki custom practiced in Konawe, Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia, where the phrase literally means “to hand over and to let go.”
It is a cultural way of resolving marital conflicts caused by infidelity. Unlike many cases that escalate into violence, bitter divorces, or drawn-out legal battles, the tradition emphasises dialogue, respect and acceptance.
The process involves community leaders, family members from both sides, and the couple in conflict. Together, they exchange apologies, symbolically transfer responsibilities, and end the dispute through gestures of peace.
How the conflict began
Earlier in September 2025, SRH caught his wife NH with her lover in a boarding room in Unaaha, Konawe.
He reported the incident to the police, and both admitted to the affair. Evidence included a motorbike that was secured at the scene.
Instead of pursuing the matter in court, SRH opted to settle it through customary law.
Puudombi Village Head, Safrudin, confirmed the arrangement: “This morning we resolved it through tradition. All parties were present, including the wife and her lover,” he said.
The settlement terms
As part of the resolution, the wife’s lover had to fulfill certain traditional conditions. These included:
- One cow (originally one buffalo)
- One tray (kaci)
- A kettle (cerek)
- A container for betel leaves (ta’awu)
- Rp5 million (about RM1,500) in cash
According to SRH’s family, the settlement was accepted sincerely.
They viewed the event as both fate and a life lesson, allowing the conflict to close with dignity rather than hostility.
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