Cartoonist Ujang: A Raya of Freedom After 24 Years

The end of Ramadan brings Aidilfitri, a celebration of perseverance and endurance. However, this year’s festivities carry a deeper meaning for Malaysian cartoonist Ujang. Real name Ibrahim Anon, he has finally regained financial freedom after 24 years of bankruptcy, making this his first Raya as a free man.

The Rise and Fall of a Cartoonist

In 1993, Ujang created his namesake magazine and characters, becoming a household name in Malaysia. However, legal disputes over publishing rights led to a lawsuit from a publishing company claiming ownership of the “Ujang” brand. As a result, Ujang was burdened with RM1.8 million in debt, eventually declaring bankruptcy.

During this period, Ujang faced immense distress. “I was so overwhelmed that I lost touch with reality. I even forgot about my wife and children and wandered aimlessly, carrying a gravestone (batu nisan) everywhere I went,” he recalled.

Spending His First Raya in Isolation

After losing his assets and livelihood, Ujang sought refuge in Tasik Kenyir, a serene lake in Malaysia. He spent his first Raya alone there, fasting in complete solitude.

Later, he traveled deep into Taman Negara, refusing to return with his companions. It was only when villagers found him sitting alone on a fishing platform that he was brought back to celebrate Aidilfitri with others.

His Family’s Reaction and Self-Reflection

At the peak of his career, Ujang owned a four-story office in Kuala Lumpur and employed over 70 people. Yet, his mother was unaware of his success.

“One day, my sisters brought my parents to visit my office. My mother scolded me, saying, ‘What is this? What kind of job is this? Whose office is this? Where did you get the money for all this?’” he recalled.

However, when legal troubles struck and he lost everything, his mother had another reaction. “One moment, her son was famous, and everyone thought he was wealthy. The next, he was homeless,” he said.

“She didn’t understand trademarks or copyrights. I just told her, ‘I was cheated.’”

Her response? More scolding. “She said, ‘That’s why I told you to sell roti canai, but no—you wanted to do big business! Look at your friend, he’s doing fine selling kuey teow.’”

A Fresh Start

In July 2023, Ujang was officially discharged from bankruptcy under Section 33A of Malaysia’s Insolvency Act.

Now back in the creative industry, he also runs houseboat fishing trips at Tasik Kenyir. Learning from his past, he now ensures that all his works are legally protected. “I register all my intellectual property now. I won’t make the same mistake again,” he said.

This Raya isn’t just another celebration for Ujang—it marks a new beginning, a life free from the burdens of his past.

Conclusion

Ujang’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of intellectual property rights and the challenges artists face in protecting their work. It also serves as proof that no matter how hard life gets, one can always start over and rise again. His journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of never giving up.