12 June 2014: The Rumah Book Launch November 6, 2014 – Posted in: Newsletters

The Malay rumah kampung is a cultural icon, and we should remember and hold on to the tradition that makes up our identity. — Lat

Areca Books is happy to share with you the video of the Rumah book launch in Kuala Lumpur recently.

Malaysian cartoonist Datuk Mohammad Nor Khalid, better known as Lat, was guest of honour at the launch held at the Kuala Lumpur Gallery in March. In his speech Lat described the traditional Malay house as a cultural icon, and that the younger generation should remember and hold on to the tradition that makes up this homegrown identity. Lat also provided a foreword and illustration to the book.

Architect and ecologist Datuk Dr Ken Yeang, who spearheaded the book, said the traditional Malay house was a cultural icon that was in danger of being a forgotten relic amongst the high-rise apartments, contemporary bungalows and terrace houses.

Guests at the launch also enjoyed the framed illustrations by London-based illustrator Ahmad Harun whose watercolor works were used to accompany the poem.