As of today, "Takluk: Lahad Datu," an action-packed war drama directed by Zulkarnain Azhar and co-written with Peter Toyat, is making its debut in cinemas nationwide.
 

Inspired by true events, the film stars a stellar cast including Eman Manan, Syafiq Kyle, Kamal Adli, Fikry Ibrahim, Anding Indrawani, Riezman Khuzaimi, Josiah Hogan, and Ayez Shaukat. Also featured in this highly anticipated film are Fad Anuar, Adam Corrie Lee, Mustaqim Bahadon, and Zarul Umbrella.
 

Timed for release during the nation's independence month, "Takluk: Lahad Datu" is expected to have a profound impact on audiences, showcasing bravery and the spirit of struggle exhibited by the nation's heroes. The film aims to take viewers through a deep emotional journey, depicting the tense moments of the Lahad Datu military operation during the 2013 intrusion crisis that shocked the country. The narrative also highlights how security forces managed the critical situation.
 

The film’s storytelling is said to be closely aligned with reality, achieved through detailed consultations with those involved in the actual operation to ensure historical accuracy.
 

Director Zulkarnain Azhar emphasized that the film is inspired by the Lahad Datu events but does not directly reference any specific parties to avoid controversy. This approach is intended to prevent any potential issues or backlash. Zulkarnain explained that the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and the Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN) monitored the film's production and imposed certain conditions.
 

"We did not use specific language or reveal the real names of the terrorists to avoid offending or provoking them, which could lead to controversy," said Zulkarnain. "Among the conditions was not to display any Sabah flags, regional languages, or the real names of the enemies in the film. We only used the situation as inspiration, fictionalized the characters and names, but aimed to reflect the true essence of the events."
 

The primary objective of "Takluk: Lahad Datu" is to honor the sacrifices of those who fought to defend the country, rather than glorify the actions of the intruders.
 

The film, which recounts the 2013 Lahad Datu intrusion crisis, will be available in local cinemas starting August 22. Filming took place over nearly two months in Semporna and Lahad Datu, Sabah, as well as in various locations in Selangor.

 

Souce: Berita Harian