Hi all, I'm working as the assistant producer of a film involving the country (short film only tho), and I need to get a footage of Tunku Abdul Rahman shouting "merdeka" back in 1957 (the same footage used in multiple patriotic videos we were shown in high school). Any idea where I can get permission/access to them?

Also, has anyone had any experience getting footages from interviews or press conferences from the mainstream media?

You can try dropping a mail to the National Archives (Arkib Negara).
I'm quite sure they have that footage.
That said, I believe you will have to convince them of your film direction before they would pass it you.

Haha because of the nature of my project, it's my last resort precisely because I know that I'll have to convince them! Any other alternatives? and thanks!

youtube.

If that's the case, copyright issue would probably be the last of your worries.
Since I believe the national archives do own the copyright of those footages as well.
Since they're the one who commissioned the photog/video or the original owner cannot be tracked.

Like the above user, just grab it from youtube or something.
Not sure if you can get it at HD quality though.

Uhh hmm sounds complicated now then. I'll let my producer know. Thanks a bunch!