Latest news with #Samad
The Star
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
Now 90, A Samad Said's appetite for the written word burns as brightly as ever
National Laureate Datuk Seri Dr Abdul Samad Mohamed Said – better known as A. Samad Said, or simply Pak Samad to the literary masses – remains a towering yet approachable figure in Malaysian culture. He was last seen on the big stage at the 2024 Merdeka Award ceremony in Kuala Lumpur last August, where he was among seven recipients honoured for exceptional contributions in their fields. But if Samad is not in the spotlight, you'll likely find him – accompanied by his wife Rashidah Md Dahan – among the crowd, meeting literary and art fans – like at the Palette And Pen exhibition launch at Bank Negara Malaysia Museum and Art Gallery in April, where he's exhibiting a striking ink-on-paper series. He also turned 90 in April, yet his passion for books and writing remains undimmed. With the help of his musician-writer son Az Abdul Samad, 44, he spoke to Bernama recently about his long career and enduring love for the written word. Samad has five children, 11 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Love for books, writing Born on April 9, 1935, in Kampung Belimbing Dalam, Durian Tunggal, Melaka, Samad was raised in Singapore and began his education at Kota Raja Malay School before continuing at Victoria Institution in Kuala Lumpur. One of his earliest short stories, Hari Ini Hari Gembira (October 1954), marked the start of a long literary journey – earning him recognition as a voice of the people's conscience and a symbol of the resilience of the national language. Over the years, he wrote under several pen names, including Hilmy Isa, Isa Dahmuri, Jamil Kelana, Manja, Mesra, and Shamsir. More than just a poet and novelist, Samad is seen as the voice of the people, a cultural force, and a symbol of the strength of the national language. Photo: Bernama After passing the Senior Cambridge Certificate in 1956, he worked as a clerk at Singapore General Hospital before joining the newspaper Fikiran Rakyat in Kuala Lumpur. He soon returned to Singapore to write for Utusan Zaman and Utusan Melayu, both under the Utusan Group, led by literary giant Usman Awang. When the company moved to Kuala Lumpur, Samad followed, later helping Usman Awang manage the magazine Mastika. He would go on to serve as Head of Literary Development at the New Straits Times. In 1987, he left his editorial post at Berita Harian to devote himself fully to writing, focusing on essays and poetry. 'No regrets' Reflecting on his seven-decade-long literary journey, filled with its fair share of ups and downs, Samad shared that he has always loved being a writer – even if the path has been far from financially secure. "One can't really rely on it for a steady monthly income ... it's unpredictable. Sometimes, you earn well and at other times, you get nothing at all. But because it's a path I chose from the beginning, I have no regrets,' he said. His achievements speak volumes about his literary stature, but he admitted he never expected to gain such widespread recognition, saying his success as a novelist still surprises him. "After receiving praise and material rewards, I felt like it was an unexpected gift for which I'm truly grateful. Every time I write something that receives a good response, I feel it's not only a personal gain but also benefits society. I believe it (such achievements) becomes part of the nation's treasure.' On receiving the 2024 Merdeka Award, Samad said, 'Honestly, I didn't expect it and I never imagined it. But of course, I'm happy.' This file photo from 1992 shows Samad at home in Ampang, Selangor surrounded by his books. Photo: The Star/Filepic He also revealed that one of the most cherished highlights of his career was writing Al-Amin, a poem chronicling the life of Prophet Muhammad. "I never thought I'd complete an entire Islamic poetry anthology. I'm proud of my other works too, but Al-Amin was the most challenging – it demanded my full sincerity, knowledge, and capability,' he said. Salina and beyond Samad became a household name with the 1961 publication of his novel Salina, which follows a woman's struggle to reclaim her dignity in post-World War II society. Once a mistress, Salina grapples with love, loss, and the weight of societal judgment in a world that has cast her aside. The novel explores themes of poverty, morality, redemption, and the clash between tradition and change – all through Salina's poignant journey. Though it only earned a consolation prize in a 1958 Dewan Bahasa Dan Pustaka competition, Salina went on to be hailed as the first major modern Bahasa Malay novel. It has since seen numerous reprints, including a 60th anniversary edition in 2021. With its poetic prose and bold realism, Salina remains a cornerstone of Bahasa Malaysia literature and essential reading for literary enthusiasts. His poetry collections, including 68 Soneta Pohon Gingko and Balada Hilang Peta, along with translated works, have extended his literary reach internationally – even to South Korea. At the 'Palette And Pen' exhibition at Bank Negara Malaysia Museum and Art Gallery in KL, Samad is exhibiting a striking ink-on-paper series. Photo: The Star/Faihan Ghani As a poet, Samad also revealed how he overcame his greatest challenge – stuttering. 'My biggest challenge has been my stutter. From the beginning, I dreamed of becoming a great orator. So I would go to the seashore, wait for the big waves to crash, and try to shout louder than the waves hitting the shore or rocks,' he said. Other notable works by Samad include Hujan Pagi, a psychological novel about a pre-war journalist grappling with the changing landscape of modern journalism. His novels such as Daerah Zeni, Sungai Mengalir Lesu, Di Hadapan Pulau, and Keledang explore societal struggles from diverse perspectives. Travel was also a key source of inspiration. His 1965 trip to India led to Bulan Tak Bermadu di Fatehpur Sikri, while his 1989 journey through Europe inspired Cinta Fansuri and Warkah Eropah – works that reflect his fascination with other cultures and his talent for turning personal encounters into universal narratives. On the theatre front, Samad also left his mark in drama with Lantai T. Pinkie, staged 17 times up to 2023. Reading, a constant companion For someone who has blurred the lines between career and personal life, Samad offered a thoughtful reflection. "I honestly can't separate the two. To me, every passing moment is meaningful. Reading is my only pastime ... I feel at ease when I have a book on my right and left," he said. Samad at a poetry and music recital in George Town, Penang in November 2016, accompanied by his son Az on guitar. Photo: The Star/Filepic These days, he finds comfort in revisiting classic literature – books he never had the time to finish earlier in life. "Now, I spend more time reading the classics I once left unfinished. I enjoy works by Fyodor Dostoevsky, Leo Tolstoy, and Ernest Hemingway ... I didn't complete their books in the past, but now I'm taking my time, savouring each moment and 'gathering' wisdom,' he shared. Reflecting on his life philosophy, he added that he often reminds others that simply having the chance to live is a gift – not everyone gets that opportunity. "But I did and I am grateful for it. Each person interprets life in their own way, but it is something that must be cherished. As a writer, I try to do the best I can.' Having endured many difficult phases in life, he said his religious beliefs have grown even more meaningful with time. "Whenever I feel anxious, I find comfort in reading the Quran,' he said, adding he considers his success at overcoming his stutter an "extraordinary achievement'. "I hope I made meaningful contributions to my people and my country through my presence in this world. And if this has happened, I am content," he concluded. – Bernama
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Couple and 4-Year-Old Daughter Were Victims on Deadly Air India Crash, Family Confirms
A couple and their little girl died after the fatal Air India flight crashed on Thursday, June 12 "The news of this tragic incident has left us devastated," the family said in a statement The couple were active volunteers in their U.K. neighborhoodA couple and their 4-year-old daughter were among the at least 249 victims who died after a London-bound plane crashed shortly after takeoff in India. Akeel Nanabawa, Hannaa Vorajee and their daughter, Sara Nanabawa, were coming back to England from a surprise trip to India when the tragic accident occurred on Thursday, June 12. Now, the family they left behind is 'devastated,' the BBC, ITV News and South Wales Argus reported. 'We are heartbroken as we await further information regarding our beloved family members,' the couple's family said in a statement shared with the BBC. 'The news of this tragic incident has left us devastated, and we are still coming to terms with the enormity of what has happened." The Air India plane left Ahmedabad in western India on the afternoon of Thursday, June 12, and was headed to London's Gatwick Airport, Air India confirmed. Faiz Ahmed Kidwai, the director general of the directorate of civil aviation, told the Associated Press that the jet slammed into a residential area called Meghani Nagar just after taking off at 1:38 p.m. local time. It's unclear what caused the crash. Twelve crew members and 230 passengers were on board at the time of the crash, Air India said. Only one person who had been on board the plane survived. At least eight people on the ground also died, officials told the BBC. A relative of Hannaa's, Hussain Vorajee, told the BBC that the family is 'saddened' to have lost such 'beautiful souls.' "She was a lovely girl, the community is shocked, not just in Gloucester but across the country,' Vorajee continued. "A very young family has been taken from us, this is something that we've never witnessed, something that has affected so many families.' In a tribute on LinkedIn, Imam Abdullah Samad said that he worked with Hannaa, who was a director at Peace Inclusion. The nonprofit helps create opportunities and inclusive spaces for religious and racial minorities, according to its website. The organization and Samad did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's requests for comment. "She could find beauty in the smallest details and was fiercely committed to doing things right," wrote Samad, adding that Hannaa "was a massive advocate to ensure we built bridges, and that our beautiful religion was understood better." Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. The couple, who lived in Gloucester, were active volunteers in the community, according to Yahoo News. They were incredible parents, Samad wrote of the couple. "Together, they were the perfect team — raising a daughter who carried their light in every way," eh said. "She was bubbly, bright, and the centre of their world. They were absolutely devoted to little Sara, making sure she was always one step ahead, all the time. " Read the original article on People
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Couple and 4-Year-Old Daughter Were Victims on Deadly Air India Crash, Family Confirms
A couple and their little girl died after the fatal Air India flight crashed on Thursday, June 12 "The news of this tragic incident has left us devastated," the family said in a statement The couple were active volunteers in their U.K. neighborhoodA couple and their 4-year-old daughter were among the at least 249 victims who died after a London-bound plane crashed shortly after takeoff in India. Akeel Nanabawa, Hannaa Vorajee and their daughter, Sara Nanabawa, were coming back to England from a surprise trip to India when the tragic accident occurred on Thursday, June 12. Now, the family they left behind is 'devastated,' the BBC, ITV News and South Wales Argus reported. 'We are heartbroken as we await further information regarding our beloved family members,' the couple's family said in a statement shared with the BBC. 'The news of this tragic incident has left us devastated, and we are still coming to terms with the enormity of what has happened." The Air India plane left Ahmedabad in western India on the afternoon of Thursday, June 12, and was headed to London's Gatwick Airport, Air India confirmed. Faiz Ahmed Kidwai, the director general of the directorate of civil aviation, told the Associated Press that the jet slammed into a residential area called Meghani Nagar just after taking off at 1:38 p.m. local time. It's unclear what caused the crash. Twelve crew members and 230 passengers were on board at the time of the crash, Air India said. Only one person who had been on board the plane survived. At least eight people on the ground also died, officials told the BBC. A relative of Hannaa's, Hussain Vorajee, told the BBC that the family is 'saddened' to have lost such 'beautiful souls.' "She was a lovely girl, the community is shocked, not just in Gloucester but across the country,' Vorajee continued. "A very young family has been taken from us, this is something that we've never witnessed, something that has affected so many families.' In a tribute on LinkedIn, Imam Abdullah Samad said that he worked with Hannaa, who was a director at Peace Inclusion. The nonprofit helps create opportunities and inclusive spaces for religious and racial minorities, according to its website. The organization and Samad did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's requests for comment. "She could find beauty in the smallest details and was fiercely committed to doing things right," wrote Samad, adding that Hannaa "was a massive advocate to ensure we built bridges, and that our beautiful religion was understood better." Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. The couple, who lived in Gloucester, were active volunteers in the community, according to Yahoo News. They were incredible parents, Samad wrote of the couple. "Together, they were the perfect team — raising a daughter who carried their light in every way," eh said. "She was bubbly, bright, and the centre of their world. They were absolutely devoted to little Sara, making sure she was always one step ahead, all the time. " Read the original article on People
New Straits Times
13-06-2025
- Politics
- New Straits Times
NST Leader: A 50-year journey to media self-regulation
In 1987, 'New Straits Times' editorial director Tan Sri A. Samad Ismail issued a staff memorandum over the government's proposal to make the Printing Presses and Publications Act 1984 more punitive. The proposed provision would make editors or writers spend a mandatory one year in jail for the publication of "untruths", among other malfeasances. The proposed mandatory jail sentence rattled journalists. Back then, newsmen were used to being hauled to court for various infractions, but the cases often ended with only hefty fines. Granted, the political environment then was tense, a few months before October's Op Lalang, but somehow, Samad reacted just the opposite, unvexed at the proposed provision. Instead, he wrote a laconic sentence that stood out: "There is nothing to worry because the New Straits Times does not publish untruths". That Samad memorandum defined the defence and extension of media freedom to guarantee fair and responsible reporting based on self-regulation without government intervention. Samad's principles may have been subtly written into the new Malaysian Media Council Act, whether drafters of the law realised it or not. The Act is the culmination of a 50-year media journey to defend the freedom to publish, allowing for civilised public discourse and to make complaints against any media outfit. The Act's passing and its implications were so well received that the likes of the Malaysian Bar and Amnesty International have endorsed it, although they had minor reservations. It's a given that the media, previously ruled by newspapers, magazines, radio and TV but now dominated by online platforms, will continue to strive for autonomy and free expression. In this digital news era buttressed by artificial intelligence, the media, not just in Malaysia, has found it harder to tackle disinformation, hatred and unethical reporting, issues which the MMC must decisively address. Designed to be independent, the MMC will address media freedom, ethical journalism and welfare of its professionals, while upholding independence and strengthening information and free expression ecosystems. The National Journalists Day (Hawana) 2025 summit today expects the government to green-light these initiatives, and perhaps clarify certain grey areas. There are concerns about potential "interference", only because there are government representatives on the MMC board. The Act may have not defined terms like "ethical and responsible journalism" and "media independence", provisions open to interpretation. The Act also has not addressed concerns about deepfakes and AI-generated disinformation. Still, Hawana 2025 can resolve these concerns, ultimately allowing the media to operate as intended — free, responsible and truthful, just as the late Samad elucidated almost 40 years ago.
South Wales Argus
13-06-2025
- General
- South Wales Argus
Newport family who died in Air India crash 'widely loved'
Akeel Nanabawa, Hannaa Vorajee, and their four-year-old daughter Sara Nanabawa were returning to the UK from a surprise trip to India when their plane crashed into a residential area, hitting a hospital and a student hostel. The family, originally from Newport but living in Gloucester, were described as "kind" in a tribute shared by Imam Abdullah Samad. Mr Samad said: "We are heartbroken as we await further information regarding our beloved family members who were on board the Air India flight from Ahmedabad to Gatwick. "The news of this tragic incident has left us devastated, and we are still coming to terms with the enormity of what has happened. "This young family was incredibly close-knit – devoted parents and their beautiful young daughter." The family were active members of the community, regularly volunteering at a local Islamic school and other community projects. Hannaa was also a director at Peace Inclusion, an organisation aimed at fostering understanding of Islam through education and dialogue. Mr Samad added: "They were compassionate, active members of the community who regularly volunteered at our local Islamic school and for various local projects. "Their sense of justice and service extended far beyond Gloucester. "Together, they were committed advocates for humanitarian causes – particularly the suffering of innocent Palestinians and the urgent need for accessible medical care in parts of India. "They gave their time and energy to awareness campaigns and fundraising efforts, always guided by a strong sense of responsibility to help others." Their loss has left a void in the community, with Mr Samad describing the family as "a pillar of strength in our lives." He added: "They were widely loved and deeply respected. "His quiet generosity, her warmth and kindness, and their daughter's bright, joyful spirit made a lasting impact on everyone who knew them. "She was a ray of sunshine in her school and they were a pillar of strength in our lives." The family has asked for privacy as they navigate this "incredibly painful period," thanking the community for their support and solidarity. Mr Nanabawa was a former pupil of Caerleon Comprehensive School and the University of South Wales before moving to Gloucester with his family. Friends and family have paid tribute to him on Facebook, describing him as "one of a kind" and a "devastating loss." The family have asked the media and public not to contact them at this time, and have said that any verified updates will be shared through the appropriate channels.
