KOTA BHARU – For the past decade, P. Ramlee-era supporting actor Abdul Kadir Mamat has often been the focus of public attention, becoming an icon to enliven the National Day celebration.
Abdul Kadir, 80, or more well-known as Pok Dir among the local community, would wear his Jalur Gemilang costume and take part in processions in conjunction with the National Day.
But his health was affected after he was diagnosed with prostate cancer and forced to use a stoma bag which has hampered his movements.
“I was often invited by various quarters to liven up the National Day celebrations in schools. But now the situation is not as festive, especially with the Covid-19 pandemic.
“This time around I will celebrate the momentous day at home with my wife, Hasmah Yusof, 56. I did harbour an intention to go around the village with a Jalur Gemilang," he said when met at his house in Kota Jembal, here, today.
Pok Dir said his health had deteriorated last month and he had to commute to the Universiti Sains Malaysia Hospital (HUSM), Kubang Kerian here.
According to Pok Dir, he now spends more time at his house which was contributed by the Rubber Industry Smallholders Development Authority (Risda) through the Rural and Regional Development Ministry Housing Programme in 2010.
Pok Dir had acted in films directed by the late Tan Sri P. Ramlee such as ‘Kanchan Tirana’, ‘Ali Baba Bujang Lapok’ and ‘Pendekar Bujang Lapok’.
In the film ‘Ali Baba Bujang Lapok’, Abdul Kadir was the first robber who was doused in hot oil by Marjina played by Datuk Sarimah Ahmad.
Commenting on the National Day, Pok Dir said no matter what happens, the people must be united and defend the peace enjoyed.
“I, for one, was almost killed during the May 13, 1969 riot. The painful incident clearly showed that if we are not united and don’t understand one another, there will surely be tension which can wreak havoc,” said Abdul Kadir, who is from Kampung Berhala near Peringat here. – Bernama, August 23, 2021
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