The Confrontation, 1962-1966.

Get ready to dive into the historical clash between Malaya and Borneo in a unique event that brings the past to life!

The ‘Confrontation’ was an undeclared conflict in which Indonesia attempted to prise the northern Borneo states away from the Malaysian Federation and the Commonwealth. Over four turbulent years — beginning with the Brunei Revolt — as many as 15,000 Commonwealth troops were deployed to the dense jungles and remote kampongs (villages) of Borneo.

This month’s talk explores the political tensions that led to the outbreak of hostilities, the realities of jungle operations, and the delicate measures taken to prevent the conflict from escalating into a full‑scale guerrilla war. It will trace the campaign from the defence of northern Borneo against Indonesian incursions to the launch of the Top Secret Operation CLARET, when Commonwealth forces moved onto the offensive with cross‑border actions and the interdiction of supply routes.

Along the way, the talk will highlight some of the most significant engagements on the ground, bringing forward remarkable acts of gallantry and valour by those who served. While political developments ultimately shaped the end of the Confrontation, the decisive factor remained the relentless execution of the campaign plan by operational and tactical commanders — and the Commonwealth’s hard‑won domination of the jungle.

🎟️ Tickets are £14 per person, which include after‑hours access to the museum, a selection of wine, soft drinks, and a buffet!