Leong (left) handing over a copy of the book to Assoc Prof Fan (centre). Looking on are (from second left) Liew, the late Dr Lee’s wife Loo Seak Lee and Leong’s wife Chung Yook Chee. — Photos: ART CHEN/The Star
THE works of the late poet, writer and artist Peng Shih Lin have been immortalised in a new book.
A Collection of Peng Shih Lin’s Artwork is a tribute from Peng’s five children to honour her legacy.
It features a compilation of artworks and poetry by the scholar, better known by her pen name Cui Yuan.
“We began the process of compiling all her works in 2010.
“The book took more than five years to complete, including compilation, translation and editing work,” said Peng’s youngest son Leong Chao Seong, who was entrusted with the task of preserving Peng’s works following her death in 2004.
Liew (in batik) with Chan (right) and Leong (second from right) looking at Peng’s artworks.
The bilingual Chinese and English book was edited by the late Dr Lee Kean Yau, a former lecturer in Chinese Literature at New Era University College (NEUC).
It highlights about 100 of Peng’s works, including calligraphy, poems, paintings and Chinese seals.
Born in Hunan, China, in 1923, the renowned educationist, writer, calligrapher and artist moved to Ipoh, Perak, in 1950 after marrying tin miner Leong Sam Yuan.
She taught Chinese literature at SMJK Perempuan Perak (formerly Perak Girls’ School) and later served as its headmistress from 1954 to 1978.
Peng’s literary contributions include classical poetry collections such as Selected Poems of Ju Cui Yuan Shi and essay collections Ye Chuang Xian Hua and Shu Deng Xu Yu.
“The most challenging aspect was translating the classical Chinese text, as the language used in her works often drew from ancient formal styles, making modern translations difficult,” said Leong.
“There were no perfect phrases to convey the original meanings, so Dr Lee had to seek the closest interpretations,” he said.
Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Liew Chin Tong launched the book at a commercial centre in Ara Damansara, Petaling Jaya.
“There are very few people who are good in poetry, art and calligraphy but Peng was profoundly talented in all three,” said Liew.
“In Peng’s work, we can see the changing face of Ipoh city over time.”
The event saw Peng’s close acquaintances, students and friends sharing fond memories of her.
The Writer’s Association of Chinese Medium of Malaysia chairman Assoc Prof Dr Fan Pik Wah from Universiti Malaya (UM) said the book has an important role to play in Chinese cultural heritage.
“Peng had said that she hoped her creations could be preserved so that the younger generation would appreciate the works that she had done.
“Peng’s work not only showcases her passion in art and poetry; they also depict her hometown in China and warm interactions with locals after coming to Malaysia.
“This is vital in detailing how things were in China and Malaysia in those days,” said Assoc Prof Fan.
Star Media Group (SMG) Bhd group chief executive officer Chan Seng Fatt, who also attended the launch, expressed admiration for the book and Peng’s body of work.
“For any writer or artist, having their works preserved and immortalised is a dream,” he said.
“Leong has made that dream a reality for his mother, showing not only his dedication but also his deep respect and love for her legacy.
“This year marks the 50th anniversary of Malaysia-China diplomatic relations, and this book further strengthens the importance of cultural heritage for both countries.”
Chan added that he believed Peng’s book would be treasured by both art enthusiasts and academics in Malaysia.
A Collection of Peng Shih Lin’s Artwork is available for purchase at major bookstores nationwide.
