The controversial film Tanda Putera, directed by Datin Paduka Shuhaimi Baba, will be released in cinemas on August 29.

This matter was confirmed by the Communications and Multimedia minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek.

Ahmad Shabery said the approval was issued by the National Film Development Corporation (FINAS).

``If possible I want it to be screened earlier. The movie is a national film, about the late Tun Razak and late Tun Dr. Ismail. I think it will be most appropriate to be screened before Independence Day,” he said.

The film depicts events during the May 13, 1969 riots, focusing on Malaysia's second Prime Minister Tun Abdul Razak Hussein and his deputy Tun Dr Ismail Abdul Rahman.

Produced in 2011 by Persona Pictures Sdn Bhd, the RM4 million film carries a PG13 rating and was supposed to be screened from Nov 15 last year.

The Cabinet earlier held back the screening of the film as it was concerned it would cause conflict among communities.