LATEST PUBLICATION
Rhyme & Reflection in the Rainforest: A Poetry Collection inspired by Life in Sarawak, Malaysia
A vibrant and personal anthology of poems and short reflections that invites readers to rediscover the sights, sounds, stories, and sensibilities of life in Sarawak and beyond.
Grouped under five themes - Kuching Then & Now, Sarawak History & Heritage, Food & Festivals, Worldviews, and Personal Reflections - this richly illustrated collection blends humour, nostalgia, cultural insight, and philosophical pondering into an accessible and engaging read.
From memories of 1960s cinema halls and kopitiam breakfasts to reflections on fake news, kindness, and the nature of truth, Yong’s poetry speaks both to his own generation and to younger readers seeking meaning and connection in a fast-changing world.
"Rhyme & Reflection in the Rainforest" is available now in select outlets in Sarawak and Singapore, and its launch is timed to coincide with the upcoming 'Rainforest World Music Festival 2025' and other cultural events. A number of private companies, NGOs and individuals have supported the creation of this book.
Artwork by Gabrielle Lim
PADUNGAN: History & Humanity in a Heritage precinct of Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
Written by James S L Yong (with field research support from John C H Soo) 'Padungan: History & Humanity in a Heritage precinct of Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia' documents the people, places and stories of the Padungan area from the 19th century to the present day. Filled with originally commissioned photography by Jee Foong and vivid illustrations by Gabrielle Lim, 'Padungan' reflects on the vibrant heritage of the community through field research, testimonials and historical analysis.
Supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Sarawak, Sarawak Heritage Society, Badan Warisan Malaysia and other generous individuals.
The book can be purchased for RM150 at the Borneo Cultures Museum Gift Shop and Telang Usan Hotel bookshop.
Book cover image by Chin Kong Fen.
An illustrated map of the Padungan area in the present day by Gabrielle Lim
Illustration of various elements of heritage associated with the Padungan area by Gabrielle Lim
Illustration by Gabrielle Lim shows the historical presence of Sungai Kuching with two bridges crossing from the main bazaar site to Bukit Mata Kuching.
The front of a sundry shop located in Padungan. Photo by Jee Foong.
The remaining few fishing vessels docked at the Petanak area, with the Dun in the background. Photo by Jee Foong.
The front of a machinery shop in Padungan. Photo by Jee Foong.
A Malay-style house located in Kampong Lumba Kuda. Photo by Jee Foong.
Delivery of coconuts in progress. Photo by Jee Foong.
Montage of Padungan shopfronts. Photo by Jee Foong.
An aerial photo of Jalan Padungan and roundabout. Photo by Jee Foong.