Cartoonist Ujang’s First Raya as a Free Man
A New Beginning
Aidilfitri is a time for celebration, marking the triumph of perseverance after Ramadan. For Ujang, this year’s festivities hold special significance – his battle to be free from bankruptcy has finally ended after 24 years.
A Low Point
The cartoonist, real name Ibrahim Anon, recalls the lowest point in his life: being declared bankrupt, facing lawsuits from a publishing company over the rights to his popular comic magazine and the “Ujang” character he had created in 1993, and shouldering RM1.8 million in printing debts.
Overwhelmed by the situation, “I lost touch with reality, and not just by a little”, he said.
A Journey of Self-Discovery
Ujang recalled hitchhiking in cars and lorries until he found himself at Tasik Kenyir in Terengganu. “That first year after being declared bankrupt, I fasted and spent Raya alone at Tasik Kenyir.
“Later, I travelled by boat into the heart of Taman Negara but refused to return with the others. I remember sitting on my own on a fishing platform deep in the jungle. Luckily, some villagers found me and brought me back to celebrate Raya.”
Legal Battle
The 60-year-old’s legal battle involved the publishing company claiming ownership of the “Ujang” name and characters he created. Multiple lawsuits had been filed against him, forbidding him from producing, printing, or selling any work under the Ujang brand.
Freedom at Last
Ujang was finally discharged from bankruptcy last July under Section 33A of the Insolvency Act 1967. “Alhamdulillah, this is my first Raya as a free man after all these years,” he said.
Conclusion
Ujang’s journey from bankruptcy to freedom is a testament to his perseverance and determination. As he celebrates his first Raya as a free man, he remains active in creating artwork and running houseboat fishing trips at Tasik Kenyir. His story serves as a reminder that with hard work and dedication, one can overcome even the most challenging of circumstances.
FAQs
Q: What led to Ujang’s bankruptcy?
A: Ujang was declared bankrupt after facing lawsuits from a publishing company over the rights to his popular comic magazine and the “Ujang” character he had created in 1993, and shouldering RM1.8 million in printing debts.
Q: How did Ujang spend his Raya during the 24 years he was bankrupt?
A: Ujang recalled spending Raya alone at Tasik Kenyir, and later, he travelled by boat into the heart of Taman Negara but refused to return with the others. He also spent time sitting on a fishing platform deep in the jungle.
Q: What does Ujang do now?
A: Ujang remains active in creating artwork and runs houseboat fishing trips at Tasik Kenyir. He has also launched his own merchandise brand, Eksplentes.