KUCHING: An ambush which killed 15 Malaysian Army Rangers at Kampung Jangkar in Lundu, Sarawak, during the communist insurgency in 1972 will be re- enacted in an upcoming movie.
Titled Jangkar, the RM6mil movie will be shot on location in Sarawak starting today and is expected to hit the screens sometime next year.
State Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the Jangkar ambush, though little known, was a significant episode in the nation’s history.
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 remained trapped.
A backup team soon arrived, forcing the insurgents to retreat.
Fifteen Rangers were killed and four wounded in the ambush.
“To me, this is an important episode because the peace we enjoy is due in part to those who shed their sweat and blood at Jangkar,” Abdul Karim said in launching the film shoot here yesterday.
“The incident was not widely publicised at the time, so not many Sarawakians or Malaysians are aware of it.
“But 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,” he added.
Abdul Karim said the movie would foster national pride and uphold culture and history, besides boosting Sarawak’s tourism and creative industries.
Most importantly, he said, it would raise awareness of the ambush.
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.
Director Jason Chong said 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 Rangers who fought in the ambush.
“These are the two main storylines that we want to portray.
“It is 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.
