KUCHING: The first of a six-episode series ‘Border Towns of Sarawak’ will be aired on state-owned TVS beginning Monday, Sept 4 at 6.30 pm.
The remaining five parts will be aired every Monday at the same time from then onwards.
According to documentary filmmaker Yusmal Ghazali, his team will embark on a journey across six unique border towns to unearth the lifestyles and challenges faced by the people.
These towns, each distinct in their character and developmental obstacles, take centre stage in the documentary series delving into the experiences of the locals and their struggles in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“There are many border towns all over the world. In Malaysia, Padang Besar in Perlis, and Bukit Kayu Hitam in Kedah, are the two more well-known ones.
“Due to its extensive border with Kalimantan, Indonesia which is more than 1,000 kilometres, Sarawak too has many unique border towns along this divide, also not forgetting the border towns in the northern region of Sarawak, which borders Brunei and Sabah.
“The objective of this documentary series is to give more media exposure to these towns and highlight the challenges that they faced during the early days of development and the current situation post pandemic,” Yusmal said.
The border towns featured are Serikin, Biawak, Tebedu, Lubok Antu, Limbang and Lawas with each of these towns having unique stories to share with the viewers, which will remind us of their importance as international gateways to Sarawak, he said.
Yusmal, 49, entered the showbiz world at 19 and have not looked back ever since.
He started out as a TV host, and has found his niche in directing documentaries, travelogues and variety shows.
He is best known from his roles in ‘Return to Paradise’ (1998) and ‘Pontianak Harum Sundal Malam’ (2004).
His six episode series are:
Serikin: The Border Marketplace
The series kicks off with a spotlight on Serikin, a renowned border marketplace in the Bau district. Known for its local trade, Serikin experienced a ghostly transformation during the pandemic-induced border closures. The episode examines the fate of traders as borders reopen.
Biawak: From Hotbed to Nature’s Wonderland
Biawak, once a conflict-ridden site during the Indonesia-Malaysia Confrontation, has evolved into a natural wonderland with tourism endeavours. The episode assesses if the community is poised to embrace its potential as a significant tourist destination.
Tebedu: Malaysia’s First Land Crossing
Tebedu stands as Malaysia’s inaugural land crossing to Indonesia, fostering development to bolster cross-border trade. The Tebedu Inland Port, though significant, faces challenges due to limited cross-border trade with Indonesia. The episode examines the impact on the town’s residents.
Lubok Antu: The Iban Heartland
Lubok Antu, a vibrant town within the Iban heartland, faces the issue of youth migration. Despite the serene Batang Ai Hydro-Electric Power Dam, the younger generation seeks opportunities elsewhere. The episode contemplates strategies for economic growth and job creation.
Limbang: The Land in Between
Limbang, uniquely nestled between parts of Brunei, grapples with diminished trade activity. The opening of the Temburong Bridge redirected visitors, further affected by pandemic setbacks. The episode explores measures to rekindle Limbang’s allure.
Lawas: Gateway to Northern Sarawak
Lawas transformed from a notorious past to a regional economic hub. Urban development and mega projects spurred growth and tourism. The episode evaluates the impact of these changes on the local standard of living.
Those interested in the series may watch it on TVS channel 122 and MYTV.
