Honorary degree for illustrious cartoonist
MALAYSIA’S most celebrated cartoonist, Datuk Mohd Nor Khalid, was conferred the honorary degree of Doctor of Arts (Creative Arts) at Open University Malaysia’s (OUM) 23rd Convocation on Sept 21, which was held at Putra World Trade Centre. He received the award from OUM chancellor Tun Jeanne Abdullah.
OUM awarded him the honorary degree in appreciation of his tremendous contributions in the development of cartoons and animation in the country.
Better known as Lat, the cartoonist was born in Kampung Lalang, Kota Baru, Perak in 1951. His pen name “Lat” was inspired by his childhood nickname, “Bulat” (round). To date, he has produced more than 20 publications. Since 1994, his work has won him numerous local and international awards and accolades.
In his acceptance speech, Lat expressed his gratitude for OUM, adding that he truly appreciated receiving the honorary degree.
“This honorary degree is truly an achievement for me and the local creative arts industry, particularly the cartoon industry. I would like to thank OUM for recognising the significant role creative arts plays in today’s ever-changing world,” said Lat.
As an iconic figure in the local cartoon industry, Lat has been pivotal in introducing Malaysia’s unique culture to the world, especially through his best-known work, Kampung Boy, which has been translated into multiple languages. The autobiography earned him international acclaim and was also published in France, the United States and Japan. His unique portrayal of the local culture and racial harmony has brought together Malaysians from all walks of life, regardless of gender, race, religion or politics.
“I am pleased to have known many people throughout my career and witnessed
the unity among people, all thanks to my job,” Lat shared. “My career gave me the opportunity to get to know people from all over the world, including Europe, Japan, Asia, the US, Australia and more.”
Among his other celebrated works are Mat Som and Dr Who?!. The latter is a special publication dedicated to Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and his wife, Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali.
Aside from drawing and producing cartoons, Lat also dabbled in animation and has produced artwork for theme parks and commercial merchandise. Recently, one of his cartoons was chosen to adorn a worldclass commercial airliner. He also drew cartoon characters for OUM’S Education Portal for Internet Courses (EPIC). His work has become a trademark among EPIC users.
Approaching 20 years of operations, OUM is Malaysia’s premier open and distance learning (ODL) institution that aspires to
become the institution of choice among working adults by emphasising quality in all aspects of the learning experience. With the conferment of this award to a prominent local personality such as Lat, OUM strives to encourage Malaysians to embrace the idea that success is possible for anyone who is willing to learn.
In concluding his speech, Lat said, “I hope that the conferment of this honorary degree will be a source of inspiration to all Malaysians.”
The Kampung Boy has truly made his mark among Malaysians and beyond our shores. OUM is very proud to be able to share our aspiration with Lat to make lifelong learning a passion for all.
This honorary degree is truly an achivement for me and the local creative arts industry, particularly the cartoon industry. I would like to thank OUM for recognising the significant role creative arts plays in today’s ever-changing world. Datuk Mohd Nor Khalid
■ For more information on OUM programmes, call the speed line at 03-2773 2121, e-mail enquiries@oum.edu.my or visit www.oum.edu.my