Govt Committed To Preserving P.Ramlee's Legacy As Symbol Of Unity And Identity - Aaron

GEORGE TOWN, July 2 (Bernama) -- The government remains committed to preserving and honouring the legacy of national cultural icon, the late Tan Sri P. Ramlee, as a treasured artistic heritage that strengthens national unity and identity, National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said.

He said P. Ramlee's works are more than a collection of films and songs. They represent a shared cultural legacy and collective memory that have shaped Malaysians' historical consciousness and national identity across generations.

“P. Ramlee produced timeless works that not only transformed the local arts landscape but also promoted the values of humanity and unity.

“Art has an extraordinary ability to unite people because it creates a shared consciousness, providing a common space where Malaysians of different races, religions and cultural backgrounds can share emotions, values and aspirations, while fostering a common identity and strengthening social cohesion,” he said.

Aaron was speaking at the opening of P. Ramlee Rememberance Week 2026 and the 100th anniversary of the Birthplace of P. Ramlee at the P. Ramlee Auditorium here today. The event was graced by Penang Governor Tun Ramli Ngah Talib and his wife, Toh Puan Raja Noora Ashikin Raja Abdullah.

Aaron said that in Malaysia's multicultural society, art serves as a universal language that transcends racial, religious and cultural boundaries, fostering empathy, a sense of belonging and a shared national narrative.

To ensure P. Ramlee's legacy endures, he said the National Archives of Malaysia has established two dedicated institutions: the Birthplace of P. Ramlee in Jalan P. Ramlee, Penang, and the P. Ramlee Memorial Library in Kuala Lumpur.

“Built in 1926, the century-old house, where P. Ramlee was born, features exhibits recreating the living areas where he grew up, alongside displays tracing his early life in Penang.

“The P. Ramlee Memorial Library, on the other hand, houses an extensive collection documenting his artistic career and contributions, including biographical materials, awards, artefacts, costumes, memorabilia, film collections and exhibits on his wife, the late National Songbird Puan Sri Saloma, allowing younger generations to better appreciate the nation's artistic icons,” he said.

Aaron said the three-day P. Ramlee Rememberance Week 2026 and the centenary celebration of his birthplace reflect the government's continued commitment to preserving the nation's artistic heritage.

The programme features a historical forum on P. Ramlee's birthplace, Yasin and tahlil prayers in his memory, a public lecture titled Seni Dakwah Seniman (An Actor’s Art of Dakwah) and the 100 Lamps exhibition.

Aaron said such initiatives not only safeguard the nation's cultural heritage and identity but also educate younger generations to appreciate history, strengthen national identity and foster a stronger sense of unity.

Meanwhile, Tun Ramli shared his personal memories of P. Ramlee, describing him as one of the few figures in Malaysian history, alongside the legendary Hang Tuah, to have left a profound impact on society.

He recalled being about nine or 10 years old when he watched P. Ramlee perform during a touring show at an old hall in Teluk Anson, now Teluk Intan, Perak, in the early 1950s.

“My friends and I could not get into the hall, so we peered through gaps in the wooden walls. We even prised off some old planks for a better view, but the sound caught the attention of the staff, who chased us away,” he said.

Tun Ramli also recounted another memory involving his wife, Raja Noora Ashikin, who was a credit officer at the then Bank Bumiputera in early 1973.

He said P. Ramlee had visited the bank with a friend to apply for credit facilities, allowing her to meet the legendary entertainer in person.

-- BERNAMA

Govt Committed To Preserving P.Ramlee's Legacy As Symbol Of Unity And Identity - Aaron

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