Summary:Propaganda film about the Malayan emergency, 1948-1960.
Description:"For twelve long years we fought the enemy in our midst... We fought against an alien ideology, against terror and intimidation, against militant communism. This is the story of our struggle and our victory." After a brief introduction to the Malayans' harmonious multiracial society, the narrator introduces the "grim spectre" of communist subversion. The remainder of the film is a comprehensive account - selectively presented - of the war against the guerrillas - national registration, Briggs resettlement scheme, 'Operation Starvation', Gurney's assassination, Templer's brilliant and dynamic leadership, information and intelligence operations, jungle warfare, air support, White Areas, negotiations with Chin Peng, Merdeka amnesty offer, etc. The narration emphasises the popular character of anti-communism and the role of the Malayan police, home guard, and Federation armed forces. The Commonwealth commitment is recognised, but the British, though often shown on-screen, are seldom mentioned explicitly. Tunku Abdul Rahman is praised for his statesmanship in winning independence from the British. Tunku "achieved the impossible and had carved his name in history". The film concludes with a brief sketch of new economic developments and the end of the days of "darkness and reliance on others". End tribute to the glorious dead.
Alternative Title:
Colour:B&W
Digitised:Yes
Object_Number:COI 626
Sound:Sound
Access Conditions:IWM
Film: IWM (COI 626)
Featured Period:1945-1989
Production Date:1960-1960
Production Country:Malaya
Production Details:Malayan Film Unit (Production company)
Personalities, Units and Organisations:
Keywords:
Physical Characteristics:Colour format: B&W
Sound format: Sound
Soundtrack language: English
Title language: English
Technical Details:35mm
Number of items/reels/tapes: 4
Footage: 3776 ft; Running time: 42 mins