Lat is one of the most famous cartoonists in Malaysia and many of us grew up reading his comics.
On 8 July, Datuk Lat whose real name is Datuk Mohd Nor Khalid, 72, was bestowed the title of ‘Seniman Diraja’ (Royal Artist) by the Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Shah.
According to BERNAMA, the Perak Sultan said that “the honour was in recognition of the artist’s significant role and contributions to the country.”
The Sultan made the announcement during the opening ceremony of the Lat House Gallery located in the Silverlakes Premium Outlet area in Batu Gajah.
Sultan Nazrin added that Datuk Lat’s simple drawings really brought the micro-details of living in a multicultural society to life: “Lat sees these differences as a national asset and treasure of immense value and chooses to emphasise the shared experiences of these multi-ethnic members of society such as the joy of wedding ceremonies, festive celebrations, schooling years or getting caught in traffic crawls, to enjoying food at a restaurant, among others.”
“His work carries a clear message that people of diverse backgrounds instinctively live in peace and harmony in a spirit of mutual respect; diverse people do not harbour prejudice towards one another due to their differences in race, religious beliefs, cultural practices, and language proficiency.”
Datuk Lat was surprised and was very grateful and honoured by the bestowment.
Perak Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council (MAIPk) president Tan Sri Mohd Annuar Zaini said Lat is the first ever recipient to receive the title of ‘Seniman Diraja’ (Royal Artist) from the Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Shah, reported BERNAMA.
Tan Sri Mohd Annuar who knew Lat ever since they were 11, said that their late teacher Mrs Hew Chai Kee played a big part in shaping them when they were young.
“Lat and I owe a lot to Mrs Hew for instilling in us a sense of responsibility, to have love for the country and appreciate the value of patriotism.”
We would like to extend our congratulations to Datuk Lat for his new title!
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