By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Jan 16: Kamek Empun Production (KEP), a prominent local production company in Sarawak’s creative industry, has embarked on a new cinematic journey with the production of its latest movie, “Tumbukan Emas” (Golden Punch).
The film narrates the inspiring journey of national boxing legend Major Sapok Biki, who clinched a gold medal at the 1998 Commonwealth Games.
Leading the cast is Sarawak’s rising boxing star, Daeloniel ‘Kilat Boy’ Mcdelon Bong, alongside renowned actors Nam Ron, Azhan Rani, and Tony Yusof, who will portray the roles of coaches.
During a press conference announcing the film at a hotel here today, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah expressed the Sarawak government’s strong support for the local film industry’s growth through various programmes and funding initiatives.
“The production of local films in recent years reflects the impressive growth and development of Sarawak’s film industry. We fully support the making of ‘Tumbukan Emas,’ which celebrates the achievements and life story of Sarawak’s and Malaysia’s boxing icon, Major Sapok Biki, who once brought glory to Sarawak and the nation on the international sports stage,” he said.
Abdul Karim praised KEP director Mohammad Ghazali Jeman, better known as Jalot Jeman, for his dedication to advancing Sarawak’s film industry.
He expressed confidence that Jalot’s efforts will elevate local acting talents and nurture more professional industry players in Sarawak.
“With financial backing from the Ministry, we are optimistic that filming will commence as scheduled in March 2025, with a projected duration of 25 days. We also extend our gratitude to Major Sapok Biki for granting Jalot and his team permission to produce this film, which compellingly portrays his life journey as a boxer,” he added.
Abdul Karim encouraged creative industry players to produce more films that highlight Sarawak’s rich history and ignite patriotism, covering stories from the Brooke era, the Confrontation period, the Japanese Occupation, and figures like Rosli Dhobi, showcasing Sarawak’s struggles and progress.
With over 25 years of experience in the creative industry, Jalot has been honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the National Book Development Foundation, reflecting his continuous artistic growth as an actor, director, producer, and respected artist in Bumi Kenyalang.
Jalot emphasised that this project is a significant step in elevating Sarawak’s film industry while nurturing local talent and professional industry personnel.
“This is the moment to showcase Sarawak’s talent, not just in acting but also in directing and producing quality films,” he said.
He also highlighted that filming locations in Sarawak will enhance the region’s tourism promotion.
“We aim to blend a modern cinematic atmosphere with Sarawak’s stunning landscapes to create a strong visual impact. This film is not only an artistic endeavour but also a strategic effort to position Sarawak as a global tourism destination,” he added.
Meanwhile, Major Sapok Biki, known in his youth as a tough yet quiet child with interests in sports and music, often faced bullying due to his small stature. His agility in dodging and catching paper balls thrown by bullies hinted at his exceptional reflexes and athletic potential.
After completing school, Sapok joined the Armed Forces Training Centre in Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan. Despite the rigorous training, he saw an opportunity to escape adversity by joining the boxing team, guided by Second Warrant Officer Sanusi. Sapok was later inducted into the 21st Artillery, the Armed Forces’ elite boxing centre.
There, his talent was honed as he competed in various championships, notably winning gold in the 48kg category at the Armed Forces Open Boxing Championship. He also joined the Jaya Programme, a federal initiative to groom athletes for the Commonwealth Games.
Under intensive training and through participation in local and international competitions, Sapok sharpened his boxing skills. His crowning achievement came when he represented Malaysia at the 1998 Commonwealth Games.
Driven by determination, he triumphed over African boxer Mosses Kinyra with a score of 19-13. This historic victory marked Malaysia’s first gold medal in Commonwealth Games boxing, cementing Sapok Biki’s status as a national sports icon.
