KUCHING: The book ‘The Untamed Sarawak’ was officially launched, marking a significant milestone as the first wildlife photography guidebook created by a Sarawakian.
Authored by Bruce Teo, a licensed and passionate tour guide, it was lauded by Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, for showcasing Sarawak’s nature to the world.
“He (Teo) has devoted years to the dense, vibrant wilds of our rainforest.
“With unwavering patience and remarkable skill, he has captured and documented the reptiles, amphibians and spiders that many of us may never encounter up close.
“His work does not merely document; it enlightens. It educates. It awakens appreciation and curiosity.
“His lens brings the untamed beauty of our forests to life – not only for tourists, but for researchers, educators, and future generations of Sarawakians.
“ ‘The Untamed Sarawak’ is not just a book. It is a milestone. It is the first wildlife photography guidebook ever produced by a Sarawakian, and this is an achievement that all of us should celebrate with immense pride.
“I believe the portraits and images of our valuable resources in this book speak volumes, more than a million words,” he said at the launch of the book held at the Baitul Makmur II building here today.
He said the publication is made even more exceptional as Teo has carried the name of Sarawak onto global platforms through collaborations with National Geographic, the BBC and international educational nature programmes.
“Through his eyes, the world is beginning to see the hidden treasures of our land. Hence, this book will promote and unlock our tourism attractions in a more impactful way.
“This book is far more than a visual journey. It is a powerful tool for conservation and a voice for our voiceless biodiversity.
“It is a shining testament to what Sarawakian talent can achieve when guided by passion, dedication and vision,” he added.
Abdul Karim stressed that the state government remains resolute in its commitment to sustainability, including by expanding its network of protected areas, fostering creative industries, and aligning its development with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
“We firmly believe that conservation begins with awareness, and it is through works such as ‘The Untamed Sarawak’, grounded in local knowledge and executed with global standards, that this awareness is nurtured.
“This book is not only a reflection of Sarawak’s magnificent biodiversity; it is a symbol of our growing potential to lead in responsible tourism and environmental stewardship.
“We need to tell the world that we walk the talk, we preserve and conserve our natural wonders, for today and tomorrow’s generations.
“I sincerely hope this publication will ignite inspiration among Sarawakians, especially our youth, to explore, to learn, and to protect this extraordinary natural heritage that we are privileged to call home,” he said.
