If you’ve ever visited a Malaysian home, you might have come across one of Malaysia’s most widely read books on their shelves or coffee tables – the Lat comic books!
Datuk Mohammad Nor Khalid, otherwise fondly known as Datuk Lat, is the creator of over 20 graphic novels, among them the much-revered Lat books,’The Kampung Boy,’ a story about a young boy’s experience growing up in rural Perak in 1950s Malaysia and the sequel ‘Town Boy.’ His works mainly illustrate Malaysia’s social and political scenes, portraying them in a fun and comedic light.
The books also happen to be autobiographical accounts of Datuk Lat’s life, sharing his adventures in the jungles, tin mines, family, and school life. Narrated in English with a sprinkling of Malay words, the work has been translated into many languages, such as Japanese, French, and sold abroad!
Datuk Lat’s style has been best described as a reflection of his early influences, such as the comics ‘Beano’ and ‘The Dandy.’ His attention to detail has gained him much popularity, endearing his works to many Malaysians who find them believable and unbiased.
Last week, after seven years of planning and construction, Datuk Lat announced he would be opening a gallery in a kampung house in Batu Gajah, Perak. Named ‘Rumah Lat Dan Galeri,’ and operated by the Perak Museum, the gallery is a replica of the kampung house in ‘The Kampung Boy,’ which Datuk Lat said was drawn from memory!
Should our interstate borders be open, do head over to this beautiful kampung house from July 2021 onwards to see more of what inspired his works and a glimpse into his life. In the meantime, why not stop by the bookstore and grab a copy of Datuk Lat’s books, which will surely make you laugh!
image courtesy of https://www.pinterest.com & https://www.icecream-events
