KUCHING: A 1972 ambush on Malaysian Army Rangers at Kampung Jangkar in Lundu, Sarawak, will be brought to life in a new movie.
Titled "Jangkar", the RM6mil movie will be shot on location in Sarawak starting Tuesday (April 7) and is expected to reach the screen next year.
State Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the Jangkar ambush was a significant episode in the nation's history, which was not widely known.
On March 26, 1972, communist insurgents ambushed a Land Rover and two trucks carrying 20 Rangers from the Biawak border post to their base in Lundu.
The Land Rover managed to escape to the Titiakar army camp for assistance while the trucks were trapped.
A backup team soon arrived, forcing the insurgents to retreat. Fifteen Rangers were killed and four wounded in the ambush.
"For me, this is an important episode because the peace we enjoy today is due in part to those who shed their sweat and blood at Jangkar," Abdul Karim said when launching the film shoot here on Monday (April 6).
"The incident was not widely publicised at the time, so not many Sarawakians or Malaysians are aware of it.
"But now, after more than 50 years, I feel it is time for Malaysians, especially the younger generation, to appreciate the sacrifices of those who defended our nation from threats."
Abdul Karim said the movie would foster national pride and uphold culture and history, besides boosting Sarawak's tourism and creative industries.
More importantly, he said, it would raise awareness on the Jangkar ambush.
"This film is not just about history, it is about gratitude, remembrance and responsibility.
"Let us learn from history and remember those who fell in defending our nation," he added.
Producer David Teo from Metrowealth International Group (MIG) said the movie's pre-production took two years, with script approvals needed from various authorities including the Armed Forces.
"We have to ensure that it's historically accurate but also entertaining for the audience," he said.
Director Jason Chong added that shooting was expected to take 45 days at various locations in Kuching, Lundu and Kampung Jangkar.
He said "Jangkar" follows the journey of a main character from the current generation as well as the Rangers who fought in the 1972 ambush.
"These are the two main storylines that we want to portray. It's not just about a fight that happened 50 years ago but how someone from the current generation takes peace for granted.
"So I think it's a good time to remind the younger generation now that we should cherish our freedom and peace," he said.
