KUCHING: The beauty, diversity and soul of Sarawak have been immortalised through a world class visual masterpiece following the launch of the Snapshots of Sarawak Coffee Table Photobook, an initiative by the Photographic Society of Sibu with the support of the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak (MTCP).

Published as a tribute to Sarawak’s rich photographic talent, the photo book features nearly 300 captivating images contributed by more than 70 professional photographers, most of whom are Sarawakians.

Their works were among the winning entries from photography contests organised by the ministry between 2022 and 2024, including the Sibu Heritage Photo Contest, Enchanting Sarawak: Capturing the Heart of Borneo, Sarawak River Rides, and Colours of Sarawak.

President of the Photographic Society of Sibu, Peter Lee Kueh Leng, said the book is not merely a collection of beautiful photographs, but a living documentation that tells the true stories of Sarawak, from traditional longhouse rituals and lush tropical rainforests to the vibrancy of multicultural festivals.

“Each photograph tells its own story about our culture, nature, food, adventures and heritage. It is not just a visual artwork but also a tourism promotional tool that showcases Sarawak as a world class destination,” he said.

Peter Lee added that Snapshots of Sarawak was created with the goal of nurturing appreciation among the younger generation for the state’s heritage and identity, while inspiring both local and international travellers to discover Sarawak’s hidden gems.

“We believe that stories told through images can spark curiosity, enrich understanding and instil pride in our Sarawakian identity. This is not merely a photography book but a reflection of who we are as Sarawakians,” he said during the press conference held at Baitulmakmur II on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports and Community Development (Youth and Sports), Datuk Snowdan Lawan, described the book as a valuable tourism asset that deserves a place in every hotel, government agency and tourism establishment.

“Imagine international guests staying in hotels across Kuching, Miri, Sibu or Bintulu. When they open this book on their tables, they are not just looking at pictures but understanding the true stories of Sarawak. This is how we introduce our state to the world,” he said. -UKASnews

Reporter: Maryam Zanariah Ibrahim
Translator: Alezxandria Kapple
Photographer: Douglas