JOHOR BARU: Veteran actor and comedian Mat Sentol, or his real name Abdul Rasip Yahya, has received the Honorary Permata Dunia Award from the Multimedia University (MMU).
The inaugural award introduced by MMU was given to Abdul Rasip, 90, in recognition for his contribution in the field of cinematic arts and the creative industry.
Abdul Rasip, or more affectionately known as 'Pak Mat', said he was truly honoured to receive the award.
"I am deeply moved and happy, because there are people who still remember me.
"In the olden days, when films were made as works of cinematic art, we did everything ourselves (compared to today's technological sophistication). I like to do trial and error, so ideas come naturally," he told reporters when met at an appreciation ceremony here yesterday.
The Muar native who starred in Cathay-Keris film productions during the 1950s, 60s and 70s such as Mat Bond, Mat Magic, Mat Karong Guni, Mat Toyol and Mat Tiga Suku, also gave advice to the younger generation to always be brave enough to take on challenges in order to develop themselves.
"For young people, if you want to do something, just do it, as long as it's not wrong or negative," he said.
The artiste who used to produce television and radio commercials like Jojo, Tora, Ding Dang and Apollo is still in good health but has limited movement.
Meanwhile, MMU president and chief executive officer Prof Datuk Dr Mazliham Mohd Su'ud said Mat Sentol's ideas, talent and creative work has had a significant impact on the growth of art and creativity in society.
"His persistence in creating special effect techniques for film production in a daring and out-of-the-box way was ahead of his time, even though the technology at that time was very limited.
"Although this award is minuscule compared to his giant contribution to the creative world, MMU hopes that it will be an inspiration to the community and that he will continue to be an icon to be emulated by creative industry practitioners," Mazliham said.– BERNAMA