In 1948, an undeclared war on terror exploded in the jungles of Malaya. British and Malayan security forces fought a formidable guerilla army determined to create a Communist republic. They failed – but by the time the war ended 12 years later, tens of thousands of people had been killed, both combatants and civilians. Yet against this terrible background, Malayans from all races and classes joined together to form a new nation – independent Malaya. The Malayan Emergency was an education in fighting together – the crucible of independence.

The Malayan Emergency is a 2 hour special documentary that tells this epic and inspiring story – uniquely, from both sides. The film features unique archive film and photographs which cast a brilliant new light on the often traumatic human experience of jungle warfare. Many veterans agreed to share their remarkable stories. In Thailand, former Communist guerillas tell the story from their point of view.

The Malayan Emergency puts on screen the vibrant drama and suspense behind this war on terror – and how close the British came to defeat. It reveals the radical new strategies, like resettlement and counter espionage, that in the end turned the tide. It introduces us to some of the great personalities of the time – from courageous front line policemen, Chinese, Malay and Indian to the big players like Sir Gerald Templer, Tunku Abdul Rahman and their wily communist foe Chin Peng.