Yasmin Ahmad, a passionate, witty, humorous, and humble Malaysian that needs no introduction, had her book “How You Know?” launched just hours ago at Kinokuniya, KLCC. Although she has left us, she’s still known to be a creative genius – and the face of the bittersweet and sometimes poignant Petronas ads.
Oh, and let’s not forget her films, “Rabun” (2002) and the extremely popular “Sepet” (2004).
Since her departure in 2009, many have felt that she went without leaving any “pesan-pesan” (messages). The fact though, is that she left plenty. With most of it living through people who knew her, and worked with her.
I will always remember Yasmin for her ability to consistently produce relevant and meaningful work. She did it simply by observing what was happening around her and what she believed was needed by people. She was able to dig deep into her rich life experiences and by injecting wit and charm into it, she produced memorable work that inspired not only the industry but the entire nation. She takes the form of a leader, a mentor, a joker, a mother, and an inspiration.
The words above came from none other than Tan Kien Eng (CEO of Leo Burnett Group Malaysia).
When he uttered those words, it was clear to us that Yasmin, despite being an entire universe away, still lives on, and continues to leave behind her legacy. As a matter of fact, the book launch was made possible by the very people who loved her deeply and remember her right until her last waking moment – her family members, friends, colleagues, and people who knew her personally.
Yasmin’s “How You Know?” is not a memoir. It is not a biography. It is not “just another story book”.
It contains nuggets and gems of her wisdom from her student days, through the many phases of her life, right up to the day of her passing. The book include anecdotes, poems, and photographs of her that have been contributed by various people and how they fondly remember interacting with her.
Just the way she would’ve like it.
All sales proceeds of the book will be in aid of Yasmin’s favourite charity organization, Mercy Malaysia (which was founded by Yasmin’s good friend and mutual admirer, Dr. Jemilah Mahmood).
“How You Know?” can be purchased at selected major bookstores for only RM35 per copy.
For more pictures from the launch, click! For more information, visit the official website.
