In the digital age of viral content, heartwarming stories often take center stage, reminding us that even in the most unexpected places, kindness can shine through.
Such is the case of Ferdinand Malambae, a prison officer in Indonesia, who became an internet sensation for an act of kindness that captured the hearts of millions.
The Viral Video
It all began when Ferdinand decided to surprise an inmate named Boyok on his birthday. The heartwarming event was captured on video and uploaded to TikTok, where it quickly gained immense popularity.
As of now, the video has garnered a staggering 23.9 million views, leaving viewers touched by this unexpected act of compassion.
The Prank that Started it All
The video opens with Ferdinand walking into a room with several prison cells. He greets the inmates, setting the stage for what was about to unfold. Ferdinand then stands in front of Boyok’s cell, the inmate whose birthday was being celebrated, and announces a playful prank.
The video was captioned: “We are going to prank the guy who is celebrating his birthday.”
With a mischievous grin, Ferdinand accuses Boyok of badmouthing him in the past days, trying to add an element of suspense to the surprise.
“You’re the one who saying bad things about me right?” Ferdinand questions.
Boyok denies the accusations and suggests Ferdinand check with the other inmates. Unbeknownst to Boyok, Ferdinand had orchestrated the prank with the cooperation of the other prisoners, who falsely claimed that Boyok had indeed badmouthed the officer.
“He is crying, guys,” the text in the video says, as the emotional tension rises.
Despite Boyok’s stoic demeanor, Ferdinand continues with the charade. He teases Boyok about underestimating him and then, perhaps sensing a turning point, asks him about his age.
“How old are you?” Ferdinand inquires, to which Boyok then answers “20, commander”.
Ferdinand, now aware that it is indeed Boyok’s birthday, seizes the moment. The prisoners from the neighboring cells join in to sing Boyok a heartfelt birthday song, bringing tears to his eyes.
“He is crying” the text in the video underscores the emotional impact of the moment.
Making a Birthday Wish
The surprise takes an even more heartwarming turn when Ferdinand turns to another man holding several pizza boxes, each adorned with a candle on top. Ferdinand encourages Boyok to make a wish before blowing out the candle.
Boyok, in a moment of sincerity, shares that he hopes to repent from his mistakes.
As the candle is extinguished, Ferdinand announces the grand finale of the celebration: the other prisoners in the adjacent cells are also invited to partake in the pizzas.
@makangbaju23 Kapan lagi kasih suprise ke mereka🥹🫶 #fyp #xyzbca #orangbaik #polisiindonesia ♬ suara asli – Ferdinand23