BUKIT MERTAJAM, Nov 8 (Bernama) — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today visited ‘Galeri Karyawan Nordin Ahmad’ at Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Permatang Pasir, established to honour the legacy of the legendary actor and director who was born in this district.
During the 30-minute visit, Anwar was taken through an interactive exhibition space featuring archival photographs, memorabilia and digital materials related to the late entertainer, who was among the most prominent stars of the golden era of classic Malay cinema.
Present were Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek and Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong.
Supported through the ‘Seberang Perai Levelling Up’ programme (LUSP), the gallery aims not only to pay tribute to a major figure in Malaysian cinema but also to serve as an educational platform to cultivate appreciation and pride in the nation’s cultural heritage among students.
Opened in January 2025, the gallery highlights the life and artistic contributions of the Permatang Pauh-born actor, known for his iconic roles in ‘Semerah Padi’ (1956) and ‘Hang Jebat’ (1961).
Nordin died in Singapore in 1971 at the age of 42 after contracting yellow fever.
Through the Seberang Perai Town Grant Programme under LUSP and supported by the Implementation Coordination Unit of the Prime Minister’s Department and the Penang State Museum and Art Gallery, part of the historic SK Permatang Pasir building, constructed in 1888 and attended by Nordin, was refurbished to house the gallery.
Persatuan Karyawan Pulau Pinang chairman Datuk Dr Sohaimi Abdul Aziz said the gallery demonstrates that cultural heritage can be embedded in everyday community spaces such as schools and community halls.
“What matters is that it continues to be used, visited and discussed. With support through LUSP, we have been able to create a permanent home for Nordin Ahmad’s story here in Permatang Pauh, where his journey began,” he said.
The prime minister’s visit is seen as symbolic of the government’s commitment to strengthening arts, culture and local values within education as part of holistic human development.
To date, LUSP has channelled RM3.9 million in grants to 65 beneficiaries, with 94 activities carried out across 18 focus areas, including heritage conservation, circular economy, women’s empowerment, SME development and environmental education.
The programme has also generated RM4 million in co-investments through partnerships and matching funds, strengthening community ownership and long-term local support.
— BERNAMA
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