The man who saw what others could become
The article celebrates L Krishnan, a pioneering figure in Malay cinema, who lived for a century and significantly shaped the industry. Krishnan is lauded for his exceptional ability to identify and nurture talent, most notably giving P Ramlee his first leading role, which launched his legendary career.
Why it matters
This piece highlights the enduring legacy of a crucial cultural figure whose vision and contributions were instrumental in the development of Malaysian cinema and the careers of many iconic actors.
L Krishnan, a life lived across a century of change, from the early Malay studios to the modern Malaysian creative industry. (Jarunee Rukmini pic)
PETALING JAYA: P Ramlee was nervous.
During his screen test at Shaw Brothers’ Jalan Ampas studio in Singapore, the young actor was supposed to say, “Apa khabar Inche Bakar?”
Instead, a nervous Ramlee blurted out: “Apa bakar Inche Khabar?”
Lakshmanan Krishnan loved telling the story.
He also loved recalling what he thought of Ramlee when they first met: an “ugly-looking fellow with lots of pockmarks”.
Coming from most people, it might have sounded cruel. Coming from Krishnan, who watched Ramlee become one of the defining figures of Malay cinema, it was affectionate mischief.
He knew the man before the legend.
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