BUKIT MERTAJAM: The Communications Ministry will engage the National Unity Ministry to explore potential assistance, support and technical guidance for the management of Galeri Karyawan Nordin Ahmad, says Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil.
Fahmi said the move was aimed at strengthening efforts to preserve the legacy of the late Datuk Nordin Ahmad and ensure the gallery continued to serve as an important platform for educating future generations about the iconic actor's contributions to the nation's film industry.
"Since museums now fall under the purview of the National Unity Ministry, we will reach out to the ministry to explore potential assistance, support or technical guidance in managing the gallery effectively," he said during his visit to the gallery on Saturday (July 25).
He said the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (Finas) had also been asked to support the initiative by providing resources, including high-resolution archival film clips, to enrich the gallery's collection.
He commended the efforts of the Penang Karyawan Association, led by its president Datuk Dr Sohaimi Abdul Aziz, in establishing the gallery.
"I truly admire the noble efforts led by Datuk Dr Sohaimi Abdul Aziz and his team. This initiative deserves our full and unwavering support," he said.
He described many of Nordin Ahmad's works as timeless treasures of Malay cinema, produced during the golden age of the Malayan film industry.
Fahmi said the gallery would allow younger generations to appreciate not only Nordin Ahmad's celebrated films and music but also the inspiring story of his life.
To further attract younger audiences, he suggested incorporating more interactive and digital elements into the gallery, including custom filters or virtual backgrounds for social media platforms such as TikTok.
"Through these combined efforts, we will ensure that this gallery continues to thrive and remains relevant to younger generations," he said.
Supported through the Seberang Perai Levelling Up programme, the gallery serves as both a tribute and an educational platform.
It aims to cultivate appreciation and pride in Malaysia's cultural heritage among students.
Opened in January 2025, the gallery highlights Nordin's life and artistic contributions.
The Permatang Pauh-born actor was known for iconic roles in Semerah Padi (1956) and Hang Jebat (1961).
Nordin died in Singapore in 1971 at the age of 42 after contracting yellow fever.
Also present during the visit was Finas chief executive officer Datuk Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib.
Meanwhile, Fahmi urged social media users, especially voters in Negri Sembilan, to be cautious of unverified content circulating online ahead of the state election.
He advised the public to verify information through mainstream media outlets and other established news organisations before accepting or sharing any claims.
"Over the past week, we have been urging all social media users, especially voters in Negri Sembilan, to be careful with content circulating online. Refer to mainstream media for verification of any statement or news report," he said.
Fahmi said the absence of a reported incident or statement in credible mainstream media should prompt the public to question its authenticity, as it could be fake news or recycled content from a different period.
"If an incident or statement is not reported by the mainstream media, we need to be cautious. It could be fake news or old content being recirculated as if it happened now," he said.
He also called on media organisations to continue playing their role in countering misinformation by promptly publishing clarifications whenever false information surfaced.
Fahmi expressed concern that many people now received news primarily through WhatsApp, where information is often shared without verification.
"The biggest concern is that many users receive information first through WhatsApp, but rarely take the time to verify what they receive. I hope members of the media will continue to help verify content circulating on social media and provide the necessary clarification," he said.
