THE Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the legacy of Tan Sri P. Ramlee as an enduring pillar of Malaysia’s cultural heritage and national identity, saying the late entertainer’s works continue to inspire unity and social cohesion across generations.
Launching P. Ramlee Remembrance Week 2026 and celebrations marking the 100th anniversary of the iconic artist’s birthplace in Jelutong, National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said the legendary actor, filmmaker, composer and singer left behind far more than an acclaimed catalogue of films and songs.
"They represent a shared cultural legacy and collective memory that have shaped our historical consciousness and national identity across generations. He depicted how Malaysians were and perhaps even now," said Aaron.
He said P. Ramlee’s works continue to transcend time because they embody values that unite Malaysians from all backgrounds.
“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.
The ceremony, held at the P. Ramlee Auditorium, was attended by the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Penang, Tun Ramli Ngah Talib, and his wife, Toh Puan Raja Noora Ashikin Raja Abdullah.
Born in Penang in 1929, P. Ramlee remains one of Malaysia’s most influential cultural figures. He died in 1973 at the age of 44, leaving behind an artistic legacy that continues to shape the nation’s cultural landscape.
The commemorative programme also highlights the century-old house in Jelutong, built in 1926, where P. Ramlee was born. Now preserved as a heritage attraction, the restored residence recreates the environment of his childhood while documenting his early years in Penang.
The adjoining Memorial Library houses an extensive collection chronicling his artistic achievements, including biographical records, awards, artefacts, costumes, memorabilia and film archives, as well as exhibits dedicated to his wife, the late National Songbird Puan Sri Saloma. The collection aims to introduce younger generations to the contributions of two of Malaysia’s most celebrated performing arts icons.
Sharing his personal memories of P. Ramlee, Tun Ramli described him as one of the few figures in Malaysian history whose influence on society could be compared with that of the legendary Hang Tuah.
He recalled being about nine or 10 years old when P. Ramlee performed 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 encounter involving his wife, who served as a credit officer at the former Bank Bumiputera in early 1973.
He said P. Ramlee had visited the bank with a friend to apply for a credit facility, where his wife had the opportunity to meet the entertainment legend.
Meanwhile, Penang Malays Association president Tan Sri Mohd Yussof Latiff said greater efforts should be made to preserve and promote P. Ramlee’s historical narrative, noting that his life and artistic contributions remain closely linked to the story of Malaysia’s early nation-building and deserve wider appreciation by future generations. - July 3, 2026
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