The Arsonist involves the struggles of an undocumented immigrant family and a boy's coming-of-age. The son Kesuma must forge his own identity against the intimidating presence of his father Kakang, a man proud of his Javanese heritage and well aware of the social inequalities that allow his exploitation. Kakang counteracts by torching the property of those who slight him, leaving Kesuma simultaneously proud, fearful and ashamed. A clash of wills is all but inevitable. The film climaxes in a poignant conflagration, literal and metaphorical.

Rosli loves and cares for Adik, his mentally retarded younger brother. He feels responsible for the well being of Adik. Rosli takes Adik everywhere including on his dates with his girlfriend, and this poses a problem to their relationship. She gives Rosli an ultimatum whether to choose her or send his borther to an asylum in Tanjung Rambutan.

Pak tam duda is a small time businessman who lives in a village. He supplies furniture to a middleman in the city. He is known as Pak Tam Duda because he is a widower in his 40’s. He befriends a bright little boy who becomes his assistant at the workplace. One day, while sending some furniture to the city, he falls in love with a flirtatious woman who works at a furniture shop. Since he is so easily charmed, she decides to cheat him of his money. The honest Pak Tam Duda, however, manages to save himself from being exploited.