Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim visits Nordin Ahmad gallery in Bukit Mertajam, celebrating the actor’s legacy through educational exhibits.
BUKIT MERTAJAM: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim visited the Galeri Karyawan Nordin Ahmad at Sekolah Kebangsaan Permatang Pasir today.
The gallery honours the legacy of the legendary actor and director who was born in this district.
During his 30-minute visit, Anwar explored an interactive exhibition featuring archival photographs, memorabilia and digital materials.
Nordin Ahmad was among the most prominent stars of the golden era of classic Malay cinema.
Present during the visit 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, the gallery serves as both tribute and educational platform.
It aims to cultivate appreciation and pride in Malaysia’s cultural heritage among students.
Opened in January 2025, the gallery highlights Nordin’s life and artistic contributions.
The Permatang Pauh-born actor was known for iconic roles in ‘Semerah Padi’ (1956) and ‘Hang Jebat’ (1961).
Nordin died in Singapore in 1971 at age 42 after contracting yellow fever.
Part of the historic SK Permatang Pasir building, constructed in 1888 and attended by Nordin, was refurbished to house the gallery.
The refurbishment was supported by the Seberang Perai Town Grant Programme under LUSP.
Implementation Coordination Unit of the Prime Minister’s Department and Penang State Museum and Art Gallery also provided support.
Persatuan Karyawan Pulau Pinang chairman Datuk Dr Sohaimi Abdul Aziz said the gallery demonstrates cultural heritage can be embedded in community spaces.
“What matters is that it continues to be used, visited and discussed,” he said.
“With support through LUSP, we have been able to create a permanent home for Nordin Ahmad’s story here in Permatang Pauh.”
The prime minister’s visit symbolises government commitment to strengthening arts and culture within education.
To date, LUSP has channelled RM3.9 million in grants to 65 beneficiaries.
The programme has carried out 94 activities across 18 focus areas including heritage conservation and SME development.
LUSP has generated RM4 million in co-investments through partnerships and matching funds.
This investment strengthens community ownership and long-term local support. – Bernama
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