KUCHING: Seven new books spanning themes of heritage, history, poetry, education, and storytelling were launched yesterday (Sept 30) at the Karnival Baca Perdana and Sarawak Book Fair 2025, in a ceremony officiated by Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar.
The launch, held at The Hills, highlighted the fair’s mission of enriching knowledge, nurturing creativity, and preserving cultural identity in Sarawak.
Among the titles launched was “Penghormatan Terakhir” by Sharina Ahmad Sharkawi, based on the experiences of Datuk Jorji Suhaili, the former Grand Imam of Sarawak. The book provides practical guidance for managing death and funerals, enriched with rare insights from his six decades of service.
Another significant work was “Pemulai ke Nanga Jela” by Dr Christine Padoch, which documents the Iban community of Nanga Jela, displaced by the Batang Ai Dam in 1985. Combining anthropological research from the 1970s with oral histories, the book preserves a vital cultural memory for future generations.
“Rhyme and Reflection in the Rainforest” by James S. L. Yong offered a lyrical journey through poetry and essays that reflect Sarawak’s daily life, traditions, and landscapes.
“Rosli Dhobi” by Fiezawati Kaderi retells the bravery of the young nationalist who stood against colonial rule, highlighting the role of youth in shaping history.
For younger readers, “Misi Lia dan Lila” by Fatin Aisyah Faizul Azhar tells a tale of friendship and discovery between a village girl and a star on a mission to Earth.
From the academic field, “Proceedings of Action Research, Sixth Form Centre: Vol. 9”, compiled by SMK Pending, Kuching, gathers 10 classroom-based studies across subjects ranging from mathematics and history to visual arts and sports science.
Finally, “Etnik Bidayuh dan Bale Gambang-Baruk: Identiti, Tradisi dan Perubahan”, co-authored by Dr Charlie Ungang and Dr Awang Azman Awang Pawi and published by Universiti Malaya Press, examines the Baruk institution’s central role in Bidayuh society while exploring the effects of modernisation on traditions and norms.
The fair also recognised dedicated readers through the Active Reader Recognition Awards 2024.
The recipients were Kelso Jay Blakeney (senior citizens, represented by his guardian), Evan Valentino Nico (persons with disabilities, accompanied by his mother), Nadia Fatihah Mastan (adults), Noor Eizlan Noorsaidi (students, represented by his mother), Noor Eusoff Noorsaidi (children, represented by his mother), and Nur Asikin Ahmad (staff).
Noor Eizlan and Noor Eusoff are siblings, and their mother, Nadia Fatihah, accepted the awards on their behalf.
The programme concluded with the announcement of the Choral Speaking Competition, “Unity in Diversity”.
SMK Tun Abang Haji Openg emerged as the champion, winning RM2,000, followed by SM Agama Matang 2 in second place with RM1,500, and SM Sains Kuching in third with RM1,000, while SMK Asajaya and SMK Jalan Arang each received consolation prizes.
