"Orang Perang," an epic action film directed by Hashim Rejab that highlights the bravery of the Orang Asli community in defending their homeland. Inspired by the true story of the Semai people, this film is set in Malaya during the 1950s when the communist threat jeopardised the safety of the residents.
Set to be released in cinemas nationwide starting October 1, 2026, Orang Perang unites action, friendship, and conflicts of faith through the journey of a young man named Bah Tangga. The focus is not only on the battles in the forest but also on the difficult choices faced by those caught in the violence.
This story also highlights the Senoi Praaq and the expertise of the Indigenous people in tracking movements in the forest. The relationship between the community, security forces, and individuals from different backgrounds forms the foundation for a narrative about the courage to overcome prejudice for the sake of shared peace.
The turmoil began when an Orang Asli village in the interior of Cameron Highlands was attacked by communists. Bah Tangga, who was forcibly recruited, began to question the group's struggle after witnessing the atrocities against his own community. Together with his friend, Bah Ayob, he decided to rebel and escape into the forest.
However, the escape led them into the custody of the Jungle Squad led by Inspector Syed Zainal. Bound by hatred due to communist incitement, Bah Tangga initially found it difficult to trust the Malays and the English. Syed Zainal's approach gradually changed his perspective, simultaneously opening the door to new beliefs.
The next journey took Bah Tangga and his friends through training to become members of Senoi Praaq under the supervision of the British SAS. In the narrative of this film, the training tests their resilience, while prejudice and past experiences become challenges that must be overcome together.
The reunion with Bah Pelangkin, an old friend who is now on the communist side, adds tension to Bah Tangga's struggle. The bond that once united them has turned into a conflict between loyalty, revenge, and remorse.
Orang Perang brings together a lineup of actors including Niezam Zaidi, Syazwan Zulkifli, Ammar Alfian, Fadli Masoot, Dewa Arteh, Izuan Razali, Adam Corrie, Hairi Safwan, and Fauzi Nawawi. Also starring in this film are Razib Salimin, Kazar Sarsi, Azhan Rani, Pui Yi, and Vanida Imran.
The combination of experienced actors and the talents of the new generation is one of the strengths of Orang Perang in bringing to life characters from various backgrounds trapped in conflicts of that era.
Among the highlighted production locations are Perdik Fall in Ulu Langat, Bukit Tunku, and Kem Asia in Semenyih. The forest and village settings are important elements to engage the audience in following the escape, training, and conflicts experienced by the characters.
The jungle environment also plays an important role in building the story's atmosphere, especially when the expertise of the Indigenous people in recognising and tracking movements in the forest becomes part of the film's narrative strength.
In addition to starring in this film, Niezam Zaidi also teamed up with Elly Langkasuka through "Sumpah Leluhur," the original soundtrack (OST) of Orang Perang created by Achoi Floor 88.
The selection of Elly and Achoi also adds unique value to the OST in question. Elly is the vocalist of the band Langkasuka, which emerged as the champion of the 2025 Indie Song Awards (ALI2025) with the song Baju Yang Baru. Langkasuka also won the Best Pop Song and Best Performance categories with the same work.
Achoi Floor 88 is also one of the lyricists of Tiwikarma, the song by K.O.I that was crowned the Champion of the 40th Anugerah Juara Lagu (AJL40).
That achievement brought together two names who have their own successes in the local music industry through the production of "Sumpah Leluhur," in addition to the collaboration with Niezam, who also played an important role in Orang Perang.
"Ancestral Oath" unites love, longing, and the spirit of struggle, bringing together the voices of those who fight with those who await their return. The image of a child waving, prayers for safety, and promises of loyalty connect the sacrifices on the battlefield with the hopes of the family.
The production of the music for "Sumpah Leluhur" also involved Oja on guitar, Achoi on bass, and Aki Seruling on flute. The combination of Niezam Zaidi and Elly Langkasuka's vocals brings a dimension of love, longing, and anticipation that complements the theme of struggle in Orang Perang.
By placing the experiences of the Orang Asli community at the heart of the story, this film draws attention to their sacrifices in defending their homeland.
Orang Perang is not just about taking the audience to witness armed conflicts in a turbulent era. This film also encourages society to live in peace and dignity, which is basically what Malaysians have been used to since independence in 1957.
