KUALA LUMPUR, March 7 — The illustrated biography Sepanjang Riwayatku P. Ramlee, which compiles photographs of artefacts and archival materials related to the nation’s legendary artiste, has been given a fresh update through its fifth edition published by the National Archives of Malaysia.

National Archives of Malaysia Statesmen Archives Division director Hanizah Jonoh said the republication of the book aims to honour and commemorate the late Tan Sri P. Ramlee’s contributions to the country’s arts scene.

She said much of the book, which takes the form of a catalogue, features materials preserved under the care of the National Archives, including collections housed at the P. Ramlee Memorial Library in Setapak here — the legendary filmmaker’s last residence before his passing, which has since been turned into an exhibition centre.

“For this fifth edition, the number of pages will be increased from 80 to 104 pages, with additional photographs and an updated layout.

“The photographs featured are part of the National Archives’ collection, and we will also enhance their quality using artificial intelligence (AI) technology so they appear clearer and more appealing,” she told Bernama when contacted today.

Hanizah said among the interesting materials featured are documents related to the artiste’s life, such as his death certificate, along with several other archival items preserved in the National Archives’ collection.

“The book will also showcase various film posters and highlight several of the late artiste’s acting works, including Penarik Beca. It will also be complemented by an abstract artwork by painter Stephen Menon that portrays the figure of P. Ramlee through a visual art interpretation,” she said, adding that the fifth edition is expected to be available in the market this April.

She said that besides the P. Ramlee Memorial Library, the National Archives also manages P. Ramlee’s Birthplace House in Penang, which is frequently visited by fans from both within and outside the country.

According to her, efforts to document arts figures such as P. Ramlee are important as he was an extraordinary figure who won numerous international awards.

“He was known as the ‘5P’ — actor, director, musician, singer and writer… and to this day it is difficult to find someone who possesses talents like his.

“Our aim in documenting all these materials is so that the present generation knows that the country once produced an artiste who was immensely talented and who contributed greatly to the nation,” she said. — Bernama