KUCHING: A movie on the life of the late war hero Temenggong Datuk Kanang Langkau will begin shooting next month as soon as the script is finalised.

Defence Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the current script would need a little tweaking now that the “main character” had passed away.

“Kanang was involved directly in producing the script and film. I have read the draft script where he would be the main character. But now that he has passed away, I think the directors and producers would have to revise the script,” he told reporters when visiting Kanang’s family at the Sarawak General Hospital mortuary here yesterday.

Tears flow freely: Family and relatives mourning the loss of Kanang at Bukavu Hall, Penrissen Camp, in Kuching yesterday. - ANDRE OLIVEIRO / The Star

Ahmad said the film, entitled Kanang Anak Langkau, was to be filmed over the course of three to four months, and targeted to premiere in conjunction with this year’s Malaysia Day on Sept 16.

“That means we have to work on it immediately and quickly,” he said.

Ahmad also said his ministry would find ways to assist in funding the film.

The film is about Kanang’s experiences during various missions as a member of the Iban Trackers and Sarawak Rangers.

He added that National Service trainees had also been exposed to, and motivated by, the story of how Kanang helped save the country from enemy threats.

On another note, Ahmad said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak had given a directive that Kanang be buried with full military honours tomorrow.

“His contributions were not only for Sarawak but also for the whole country. He is an icon and idol for the younger generations,” he said.

An initial financial contribution had been given to Kanang’s widow Brawang Chunggot.

He said through the Yayasan Veteran, Kanang’s widow and immediate family members would be given assistance according to regulations.

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