SANDAKAN : – Karamunting assemblyman Datuk George Hiew Vun Zin has called for a book celebrating the cultural richness and unity of Sabah and Sarawak.
“Showcasing the traditions and heritage of each ethnicity in the region while highlighting how its diverse communities coexist harmoniously,” he said.
Speaking at the Karnival Baca Perdana 2024 at the Sandakan branch of the Sabah State Library, here,Tuesday, Hiew expressed his hope for such a publication to capture what he described as a unique aspect of Bornean society.
“I have approached our esteemed panelists with the idea of producing a book that showcases how our multiracial communities live together in unity. This is a source of pride for us in Sabah, even though we remain humble about it,” he said.
The event featured Dr. Arthur Y.C. Chung and Muhammad Ruzaini Awang as panelists. Dr. Chung, a senior researcher at the Forest Research Centre in Sepilok under the Sabah Forestry Department, is a specialist in entomology.
Born in Sandakan, he holds a B.Sc. in Zoology and an M.Sc. in Entomology from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, and earned his D.Phil. in Tropical Forest Entomology from Oxford University.
An accomplished researcher, he has authored over 150 research papers and articles, including books such as Ants of Lowland Rainforests of Sabah and Discovering Insects of the Heritage Amenity Forest Reserve in Sandakan.
Muhammad Ruzaini Awang, a young writer also from Sandakan, who is now a teacher in Kinabatangan, has made his mark in the literary world despite his humble beginnings. Known for his contributions to platforms such as WadahDBP, Ruzaini is set to publish another book next year, continuing his journey as an inspiring figure for Sandakan’s youth.
Hiew praised the panelists for their contributions and announced plans to arrange a sharing session for Ruzaini to inspire the younger generation.
“His journey is truly inspiring and motivational, especially for the youth in our community. His dedication and discipline serve as a beacon of hope and motivation,” Hiew said, adding that Ruzaini’s ambition exemplifies how determination can overcome challenges.
The assemblyman also urged Sandakan residents to frequent the library, underscoring the importance of reading in shaping culture and attitudes. “Visiting the library and engaging with books can make a profound difference in our society,” he said.
The Karnival Baca Perdana 2024 aimed to foster a reading culture and emphasise the role of literature in personal and communal growth, reflecting the Sabah State Library’s ongoing commitment to promoting knowledge and unity.
