Entertainers not forgotten: DJ Dave (second row, third from left) and members of YKAT with the veteran artistes at the Santuni Seni Insan 2024 Programme in Shah Alam. — AZLINA ABDULLAH/The Star
Struggling veteran artistes get a helping hand from YKAT
SHAH ALAM: In a bid to ease the financial struggles faced by veteran artistes, Yayasan Kebajikan Artis Tanahair (YKAT) has extended crucial support to those who have dedicated their lives to the local arts industry, ahead of Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
YKAT chairman Datuk DJ Dave said many artistes are facing dire circumstances in sustaining their daily lives in the current economic situation.
“This is because they do not have a fixed monthly salary as a source of income. Various forms of assistance can be provided to these artistes, thus YKAT has taken several steps in this effort,” he said at the Santuni Seni Insan 2024 Programme here yesterday.
A breaking fast gathering was held during the programme, where aid contributions were also presented to 12 local artistes.
Among them were actor Uda Basri, Aisah @ Aishah Ibrahim, singer and actress Rusnani Abd Hamid, as well as actress Mazita Azizi.
The others were singer Khairol Idlan, musician Azhar Hassan, Sheeda Dangdut, Man Kidal, Kanagarajan, Muniandy, Kenji Sawahi and Woo Wai Peng.
The veteran artistes received RM1,000 each.
“At the same time, we also hope to continue receiving support from various parties, both in terms of financial sponsorship and any other support, so that we can continue to safeguard the welfare of our local artistes,” added DJ Dave.
The programme was the idea of YKAT trustee Prof Emeritus Datuk Dr Ahmad Zainuddin.
According to Ahmad, the programme reflects YKAT’s concern for artistes regardless of race or religion.
YKAT said in a statement that it has been routine for the foundation to celebrate artistes, especially those over 60 years old, by delivering support as a token of appreciation for their contributions to the local arts industry.
Other YKAT activities include monthly assistance, contributions on each public celebration, sickness aid and funeral aid.
Several activities have been planned by YKAT to continue safeguarding the welfare of local artistes, noted the foundation.
