Mohamad bin Mohamad Khalid, a renowned Malaysian screenwriter, film director, and occasional actor, was a prominent figure in the Malaysian film industry. Born on April 6, 1963, Mamat Khalid was the younger brother of the accomplished cartoonist Datuk Mohammad Nor Khalid, more commonly known as Lat, who had gained widespread recognition for his exceptional work in the field of cartooning.
As a young lad, Mamat would frequently sneak away to the local cinema to indulge in the latest cinematic releases, a pastime that did not exactly align with the expectations of his father. Despite being explicitly forbidden from visiting the cinema by his father, Mamat's passion for films remained steadfast, refusing to be deterred by the ban. Prior to embarking on a career in the world of filmmaking, Mamat spent several years working in a government office, honing his skills and building a strong foundation for his future endeavors.
Mamat, a multifaceted individual, pursued his passion for rock music in his leisure hours, showcasing his exceptional talent as a keyboardist for the amateur band Drop Out in 1986. This period of his life had a profound impact on his creative journey, ultimately inspiring him to take the leap into filmmaking.
Fast forward to 2005, Mamat's experiences as a rock enthusiast culminated in the writing and direction of his film, Rock, which garnered immense commercial success. The film's popularity paved the way for a trilogy of sequels, each one building upon the success of the original. The subsequent films, Rock Ooo…! (2013),Rock Bro! (2016),and Rock 4: Rockers Never Dai (2020),further solidified Mamat's reputation as a masterful filmmaker.
Mamat, a multifaceted creative individual, not only lent his translation skills to the beloved animation series Kampung Boy, crafted by his sibling Lat, but also drew inspiration from the esteemed late director P. Ramlee, whose work undoubtedly had a profound impact on his artistic vision.
Mamat's comedic style, characterized by satire, frequently critiqued the political landscape and corruption that plagued Malaysia, showcasing his astute social commentary and knack for clever storytelling.
Mamat's journey took a dramatic turn on the twenty-first of April, two thousand seventeen, when he was admitted to the Ampang Puteri Hospital's Intensive Care Unit, following a casual coffee gathering with friends.
Tragically, on October 24, 2021, the world was left to mourn the passing of Mamat, a life cut short at the tender age of 58 due to the devastating effects of heart disease, which ultimately led to his untimely demise at Slim River Hospital.
According to reports, Mamat was discovered collapsed at his beloved restaurant, Sarang Art Hub, located in the charming town of Tanjung Malim, leaving behind a trail of sorrow and heartache for his loved ones.
In a poignant farewell, Mamat was laid to rest at the serene and peaceful Masjid Kampung Paloh Islamic Cemetery in Ipoh, Perak, where he was reunited with his eternal rest, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the hearts of those who knew him.
