Lat reflects on changes in Malaysian animation, art
He contrasted his traditional approach, using ink and paper, with modern digital methods, calling current tools ‘fortunate’ for young creators.
Renowned cartoonist Datuk Lat, best known for his iconic ‘Kampung Boy’ series, compares how the landscape of animation and art has evolved compared to the time when he started to draw.
Datuk Lat, whose full name is Datuk Mohd Nor Khalid, said today’s animators benefit from advanced digital tools unavailable during his career’s early days.
He contrasted his traditional approach, using ink and paper, with modern digital methods, calling current tools ‘fortunate’ for young creators.
“Nowadays, many are fortunate to use technology like iPads, whereas I worked with ink and paper. Back then, it was simple, dip the ink, draw on paper and by evening, my fingers would be black (from the ink stain).
“However, now, they use iPads. I don’t know how to use one myself, but the computer helps us achieve things we couldn’t before.
“For example, adding light effects to black-and-white illustrations is now possible with technology. I believe today’s generation is indeed very lucky,” he said in a press conference with the media after the Anugerah Seni Negara (ASN) 2024 ceremony at a hotel in Kuala Lumpur, yesterday.
He added that his career and reputation were shaped by guidance from earlier generations of artists, notably the late Raja Hamzah and Alias Kuluk, who treated him as a younger brother and mentor even during his childhood years.
“When I came to Kuala Lumpur, they took me to museums and galleries, offering constant support. I was truly fortunate” he added.
Lat explained that his illustrations were inspired by everyone, Malaysians and those who live in Malaysia, representing the community and lifestyle here.
He said his works were not only popular locally but also abroad, where people appreciate concise storytelling.
Lat pointed out that while earlier comics often had many panels and boxes, today’s readers prefer simpler, one-line stories.
He acknowledged that crafting a simple, yet effective story is challenging but meaningful to readers. In addition to Kampung Boy, Datuk Lat has other works, including Lots of Lat, Lat’s Lot, Mat Som, and Dr Who?
At the ceremony last night, Datuk Lat was honoured with the prestigious ninth Anugerah Seniman Negara, presented by the Queen of Malaysia Raja Zarith Sofiah.
He received a cash prize of RM60,000, along with a certificate, a trophy, and a set of national attire.
Named Seniman Tamu by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture (MOTAC), he was also awarded incentives to continue his artistic contributions, as well as access to first-class treatment at government hospitals.
When asked about receiving the award, Datuk Lat expressed his gratitude, saying he is thankful for the support he has received from all quarters, including local news, local government and the state governments.
“I am grateful for this award today. It’s a gift not only for me but for all those involved in the arts in our country. There are so many. Some are friends I know, and others I may not, but all of them are remarkable.
“From woodcutters to painters and those who write inspiring stories, stories that bring a fresh perspective to our country, we have incredible talents we may never have imagined,” he said.
Meanwhile, celebrated singer Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza Tarudin received the prestigious Anugerah Biduan Negara, presented by Khairul. She was awarded RM30,000, a set of national attire, a certificate, a trophy and the title of Seniman Tamu.
The Anugerah Karyawan Seni was also conferred to notable figures in various artistic fields Datuk Mokhzani Ismail (music), Zakaria Ariffin (acting/stage performance), Wong Kit Yaw (dance), Bangie Anak Embol (handicraft), and Wong Hoy Cheong (visual arts).
Each honouree was awarded RM30,000, national attire, a certificate, a trophy, and the title Seniman Tamu.
In the Anugerah Pendukung Seni category, Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) was recognised in the media category, Yayasan Hasanah in the corporate sector, and The Temple of Fine Arts in the NGO category, with each receiving RM10,000, a certificate, and a trophy.
Deputy Minister Khairul Firdaus Akhbar Khan noted that the Anugerah Seni Negara, initiated by the Malaysian government in 1993, has returned after a 15-year hiatus.
In this edition, 10 ASN recipients were honoured.
“Congratulations to all the recipients for their dedication and commitment to enriching the country’s art scene,” he said during his opening speech here yesterday.
The 2024 ASN awards, organised by MOTAC, celebrated the achievements of Malaysia’s artistic talents with 165 nominations across various fields, emphasising the government’s commitment to recognising and respecting artists and cultural contributors who enhance Malaysia’s artistic and cultural heritage.
