Datuk Lat honoured with Cai Zhizhong Comic Prize

Datuk Lat, the 72-year-old artist, whose real name is Mohd Nor Khalid, expressed his pride in being acknowledged by the awards committee, comprising esteemed artists from various art branches in China.

Lat highlighted the strength of the ties between China and Malaysia, especially in the business sector.

“I was proud to represent our country. And also the ties between China and Malaysia are currently strong, mostly in the business sector,” he stated to Bernama.

Datuk Lat proud to represent our country

Lat, known for his comic books and cartoons, emphasised that his work has gained a wide international audience, including China, since the 1970s.

During the award ceremony, he was the sole foreign participant and was invited to join the next selection committee, an offer he declined due to taking things slow in consideration of his age.

“If I am not mistaken, he started reading my comics in the 70s and 80s. He said he liked my work because I drew about life in a multi-racial society. That is the difference between me and others,”

Lat shared, referring to his creations like ‘Kampung Boy’ and ‘Town Boy’ that depicted the life of various races.

Lat’s unique artistic style

During the ceremony, Lat and Cai exchanged their collections. While Lat’s works portray life in a multi-racial society, Cai’s works are rooted in ancient tales, folklore, and legendary stories transformed into Chinese philosophical messages.

“His books are simple but they convey messages. Cai is famous for that,” Lat remarked about Cai’s renowned style.

He also shared the invitation letter from the Cai Zhizhong Comic Prize Organising Committee, expressing their appreciation for Lat’s unique artistic style and his significant contributions to the comic industry.

“We sincerely hope this prize would be an expression of our highest appreciation for your great achievements and devotion to the comic industry,” the letter stated, marking the significance of Datuk Lat’s impact on the global comic scene, including in China.

Lat expressed his excitement at conversing with China’s renowned cartoonist, Cai Zhizhong, who presented the award. Cai, known for his graphical works on Chinese philosophy and history, admired Lat’s work since the 70s and described him as his hero.