Kuala Lumpur festival introduces P. Ramlee’s work to younger audiences
Storytelling, performances and an archival display brought the Malaysian artiste’s films and music to families at GMBB Mall.
Hikayat Fandom brought P. Ramlee’s screen and musical legacy to younger audiences through a festival at The Grey Box in Kuala Lumpur’s GMBB Mall. The P. Ramlee Nostalgia Festival combined oral storytelling with live music, dance and exhibitions, alongside creative activities for children.
Founder Ninot Aziz told Bernama that the late artiste’s songs and stories connected Malaysians across ethnic and generational lines. She said the event sought to preserve that shared heritage. Visitor Rosmasyazana Roslan, 41, a mother of four, said such programmes helped children discover his films and understand his contribution to Malaysian cinema.
A mini gallery displayed posters from classic films, vinyl recordings and archive material supplied by Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) and the National Archives of Malaysia. Screenings included footage of National Laureate A. Samad Said reciting poetry. Children could join colouring and handicraft sessions, while a costume competition featured outfits inspired by P. Ramlee and Saloma.
Storyteller Samsul Khamariah Hamzah, 69, also known as Ummi Sham, narrated a story from Nujum Pak Belalang. She said interaction with listeners offered a different way to experience the characters and plots. The festival received support from the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture through its 2026 GSSK grant, with RTM, the National Archives of Malaysia and GMBB collaborating on the event.
