By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, April 6: A new Malaysian historical film, Jangkar, is set to bring to life a little-known but tragic chapter of Sarawak’s history, centring on a deadly 1972 ambush that claimed 14 Malaysian soldiers’ lives during the communist insurgency.
The film, a collaboration between the Sarawak Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP) and Metrowealth International Group (MiG Pictures), was officially launched at a prayer ceremony and filming launch for “Jangkar” held at the Waterfront Hotel here today.
Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the story of Jangkar holds deep personal significance to him, as he had previously officiated the memorial monument erected at the exact site of the ambush a few years ago.
He recalled the tragic 1972 incident, which took place near the Sarawak-Indonesia border between Lundu and Sematan, where two military trucks carrying young soldiers were ambushed by communist forces, resulting in the deaths of all 14 personnel on board.
“They were young, some had just completed training in Peninsular Malaysia and were on their first assignment in Sarawak. On their way back from Biawak, they were ambushed, and none survived,” he recalled.
Abdul Karim noted the incident was not widely reported at the time, leaving many Malaysians unaware of what had happened in Jangkar.
Reflecting on his visit to the memorial site, he described the ceremony as deeply emotional, with many attendees moved to tears.
He stressed that the film plays an important role in reminding Malaysians that the peace and stability enjoyed today did not come easily and expressed confidence that it would evoke similar sentiments among audiences while serving as both an educational and cinematic experience.
Produced by David Teo and directed by Jason Chong, Jangkar is expected to cost around RM6 million, including production and promotional expenses, making it one of the more notable large-scale local historical productions.
Filming is scheduled to begin tomorrow (April 7), with scenes to be shot across Kuching, Lundu, Biawak, and Bako National Park over an estimated 45-day schedule.
The story follows Ismail, a modern-day youth who is mysteriously transported back to 1972, where he finds himself embedded with a Ranger platoon navigating dangerous terrain amid communist threats. Through his journey, Ismail witnesses firsthand the realities of war, gaining a deeper understanding of sacrifice, loyalty, and the meaning of independence—elements the filmmakers hope will resonate strongly with younger audiences.
The film features local talents including Yusof Hashim as Ismail, Dato Tamimi Siregar as Haji Rahim, Fikry Ibrahim as Leftenan Rahim, Noki as Renjer Aslam, and Aniq Durar as Korporal Haris.
Malaysian boxing legend Ayez Shaukat is also on board, directing the action sequences and lending authenticity to the combat scenes.
Chong said the production has been in development for nearly two years, with multiple revisions to balance historical accuracy and commercial appeal.
“We want to tell a story about patriotism and sacrifice, but it must also be engaging. A good film needs to reach a wide audience, so we cannot ignore the commercial elements,” he said.
The film is expected to be released next year, with potential timing aligned to national celebrations such as Merdeka Day, Malaysia Day, or Sarawak Day. — DayakDaily
