50 BEST MALAYSIAN TITLES 2016/2017

50

BEST
MALAYSIAN
TITLES

for
International
Rights
2017/18

ATSA ARCHITECTS SDN. BHD.
DEWAN BAHASA DAN PUSTAKA
GRUP BUKU KARANGKRAF
IKIM PRESS
KADOKAWA GEMPAK STARZ SDN. BHD.
MALAYSIAN INSTITUTE OF TRANSLATION & BOOKS
MOSAT NETWORK SDN. BHD.
MPH GROUP PUBLISHING SDN. BHD.
NATURAL HISTORY PUBLICATIONS (BORNEO)
OYEZ!BOOKS
PETRONAS GALLERY
PTS MEDIA GROUP SDN. BHD.
SHAKESPOT (AN IMPRINT OF SHAKE BOOK
PROJECTS SDN. BHD.)
SILVERFISH BOOKS
SUPERHEROES VENTURE INTERNATIONAL SDN. BHD.
TUN SUFFIAN FOUNDATION INC.
UKM PRESS
UMS PRESS
UNIMAS PUBLISHER
UNIVERSITI ISLAM MALAYSIA
UNIVERSITY OF MALAYA PRESS
USIM PRESS
USM PRESS
UUM PRESS

MESSAGE



50 of the Best 2017

As all of us, who are dealing with the book industry are aware of, the global book market is

going through some difficult times, especially so, for the past couple of years. At the local
front, the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair (KLIBF) saw a significant drop in the number of
visitors, hence sales. Some quarters were quick to point out that our National Book Policy is at
fault and needs revisiting. These critics were saying that technology should play a bigger role
towards the development of the book industry.
While I agree that technology has a role to play in uplifting the book industry to greater heights,
it should not and cannot be the driving force of success for the book industry. Since the book
industry is very much consumer driven, technology remains as an enabler for the industry's
development.
I was browsing through reports and articles on current trends in book publishing, the other
day, and stumbled upon two rather interesting webpages that support our views on technology
and what we have been doing so far for the benefit of our book industry. I will just highlight a
few points from the pages, and for those who want to know more, you can pay them a visit at
https://www.writtenwordmedia.com and https://www.pagetwostrategies.com.
Three of the top ten trends in publishing stated by Written Word Media are as follows:
1. The majority of fiction sales will come from e-books;
2. Marketing will determine the winners; and
3. International audiences provide opportunity for growth.
Now, this is rather interesting from PageTwo Strategies. e-Book growth has plateaued, while
paperbacks and audiobooks are experiencing growth, the reason being, maybe the market has
reached saturation for dedicated reading devices, or perhaps readers are experiencing digital
fatigue. As we spend more time on electronic devices, we value time away from them. The
page also reported that there is an increased focus on international publishing.
Both Written Word Media and PageTwo Strategies reports provide us comfort and also
strengthen our belief that we are on the right track in helping our book industry to prosper. With
that note, here is our "50 Best Malaysian Titles for International Rights 2017/18".

Dunkerschoen.

Abd. Wahab Ibrahim
Director of the
Permanent Secretariat for
the National Book Council of Malaysia
Ministry of Education
Malaysia

CONTENTS

CHILDREN 01

1. BORNEO ANIMALS SERIES (• TAPIR • SLOW LORIS • BINTURONG) 2. BABY PYPER 21
SERIES (• HELLO, BABY PYPER! • WHO WANTS A COOKIE?) 3. MAGIC BEAN JUNIOR
SERIES (• MY FRIEND THE VAMPIRE • NOT LIKE THE OTHERS • A LUMPY LESSON) 42
4. ON SENSES SERIES (• ZIPPA DOODA • BOOGER WOOGER WOO-HOO • HURRY BURRY 47
BABY • GOBBLY CHOMP CHOMP) 5. E IS FOR ELEPHANT 6. POKOK AJAIB MITU 57
(Mitu’s Magic Tree) 7. HAYLEY’S HAPPYLICIOUS SERIES (• HAYLEY’S VIBRANT
VEGETABLES • HAYLEY’S FANTASTIC FRUITS • HAYLEY GOES NUTTY • HAYLEY’S
SENSATIONAL SEEDS • HAYLEY’S GRAINY GOODNESS • HAYLEY’S PASSION FOR PULSES
• HAYLEY’S MADNESS FOR CHOCOLATES • HAYLEY’S TERRIFIC TEAS) 8. PUTERI GUNUNG
LEDANG (The Princess of Mount Ledang) 9. PAK BELANG THE TIGER 10. PIP’S PECULIAR
PROBLEM 11. TIGA EKOR GAJAH (The Three Elephants) 12. ONE RED EGG AND A GREAT
DEAL OF MISCHIEF 13. KELUARGA SI MAMAT (Si Mamat's Family) 14. SHADOWS

LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE

15. MASJID – SELECTED MOSQUES AND MUSOLLAS IN MALAYSIA 16. MASJID – SELECTED
MOSQUES FROM THE ISLAMIC WORLD 17. RELIGION, CULTURE, SOCIETY: READINGS
IN HUMANITIES AND REVEALED KNOWLEDGE 18. OF TEMPLE AND TATUNG TRADITION
IN SINGKAWANG 19. DIKIR BARAT – SENI HIBURAN RAKYAT (Dikir Barat – A Folk Art
Entertainment) 20. BORN IN MALAYSIA: A PHOTOGRAPHER’S JOURNEY 21. LIFE’S LIKE THAT
22. GROWING UP IN KL: 10 YEARS OF THE BANGSAR BOY 23.THE ART OF CHINESE 
TRANSLATION OF PUNS IN SHAKESPEARE’S SONNETS 24. GAMBUS: SPESIFIKASI DAN
CARA BERMAIN (Gambus: Specifications and Playing Methods) 25. YOUNG MALAYSIAN
ARTISTS: NEW OBJECT(ION) III 26. PERANAKAN CINA KELANTAN: SINTESIS CINA TANAH
BESAR DAN MELAYU TANAH MELAYU (Kelantan's Peranakan Chinese: The Synthesis of
Mainland Chinese and Malays of the Malay Peninsula) 27. WHAT A COLORFUL WORLD: AN
ILLUSTRATED TRAVELOGUE 28. AN INTRODUCTION TO MODERN MALAYSIAN LITERATURE
(Second Edition) 29. WHY I TRAVEL: THE JOURNAL OF A “BLIND HIKER”

FLORA & FAUNA

30. GUNUNG PENRISSEN: THE ROOF OF WESTERN BORNEO 31. BURUNG-BURUNG
MALAYSIA: MALAYSIA BIODIVERSITY INFORMATION SYSTEM (MyBIS) (Birds of Malaysia)
32. PULAU MENGALUM (Mengalum Island)

ISLAMIC INTERESTS

33. INDUSTRI HALAL: PERKEMBANGAN DAN CABARAN DI MALAYSIA (Halal Industries:
Development and Challenges in Malaysia ) 34. TAKAFUL SIMPLIFIED: PERTINENT FAQ FOR
QUICK REFERENCE AND UNDERSTANDING 35. ISLAM AND THE NEW ERA OF ASEAN:
WORLDVIEW AND PROSPERITY 36. ESSENTIAL FOUNDATIONS OF ISLAMIC MONEY AND
CAPITAL MARKET 37. THE BASICS OF ISLAMIC FINANCE: WITH APPLICATION IN MALAYSIA
38. THE FUNDAMENTALS OF ISLAMIC FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS AND MARKETS 39. ISLAMIC
FINANCE FUNDAMENTALS: WITH APPLICATION IN MALAYSIA 40. ISLAMIC CIVILISATION:
PRESENT & FUTURE CHALLENGES 41. BETWEEN UNIVERSAL AND CULTURAL-RELATIVITY
OF HUMAN RIGHTS: AN ISLAMIC AND MALAYSIAN PERSPECTIVE

GENERAL

42. PROTECTING THE ELDERLY AGAINST ABUSE AND NEGLECT: LEGAL AND SOCIAL
STRATEGIES 43. THE INFLUENCES OF SOCIAL NETWORKS IN MODERN SOCIETY
44. NURTURING A BALANCED PERSON: THE LEADERSHIP CHALLENGE 45. PARACOSM
46. KALBU QALHA (The Soul of Qalha) 47. SAYEMBARA (The Contest) 48. ANDING AYANGAN
49. KIRANA: DREAMS AFTER THE ROSE 50. KRONIKA NASHAN (Chronicles of Nashan
• ARISTOKRA • WIZRA • KESATRIA)

NOTES



# 01 CHILDREN  50 BEST MALAYSIAN TITLES for International Rights 2017/18

BORNEO ANIMALS SERIES

author | Beverley Hon
illustrator | Lim Lay Koon
publisher| Oyez!Books
website | www.oyezbookstore.com
size | 202 mm (W) × 202 mm (H)
pages | 12

The Borneo Animals series is a set of books to introduce young children to some animals that can
be found in Malaysia. These books are for the very young, from 3-5 years. The text is succinct and
fun to read and recite.
Read the text along with hand movements and facial expressions, such as 'Slowly, silently, slow
loris is never in a hurry'. Then get the children to act it out with you. Crawl, stomp, roll and recite.

Text by Beverley Hon
Illustrations by Lim Lay Koon

TAPIR

ISBN | 9789670999234

2

# 02 National Book Council of Malaysia CHILDREN

Text by Beverley Hon
Illustrations by Lim Lay Koon

SLOW LORIS

ISBN | 9789670999227

Text by Beverley Hon
Illustrations by Lim Lay Koon

BINTURONG

ISBN | 9789670999210

3

# 02 CHILDREN  50 BEST MALAYSIAN TITLES for International Rights 2017/18

BABY PYPER SERIES

publisher| Superheroes Venture International Sdn. Bhd.
website | store.mebooks.asia

HELLO, BABY PYPER!

author | Olaf Yen and Ellie Yong
illustrator | Olaf Yen
size | 200 mm (W) × 200 mm (H)
pages | 20
ISBN | 9789671502617

Hello, Baby Pyper! How are you feeling today? This
book looks at Baby Pyper’s feelings and how she
interacts with her Grandpa.

WHO WANTS A COOKIE?

author | Olaf Yen and Ellie Yong
illustrator | Ellie Yong
size | 200 mm (W) × 200 mm (H
pages | 20
ISBN | 9789671502600

Pyper wants a cookie but she could not reach the cookie jar. Who will be able to reach it for her so
she could enjoy the cookie and share the cookies with her friends? Read aloud and let’s find out!

4

# 03 National Book Council of Malaysia CHILDREN # 03

MAGIC BEAN JUNIOR SERIES

publisher| Kadokawa Gempak Starz Sdn. Bhd.
website | www.gempakstarz.com
size | 210 mm (W) × 148 mm (H)

MY FRIEND THE VAMPIRE

author | Michelle Wong
illustrator | Kin
ISBN | 9789673859054
pages | 148

Tommy is a tubby boy who loves eating. One day, he meets
Elena, a mysterious girl who is actually a vampire. Fascinated
by Tommy, Elena decides to stop drinking blood and instead,
eat like humans do.

NOT LIKE THE OTHERS

author |Foong Zin Yi
illustrator |Kin
ISBN |9789673859177
pages |140

A normal abnormality where being abnormal is the norm, poor
‘Zero’ remains determined to find his absent ability but instead
finds a sinister secret that threatens the fate of the entire village!

A LUMPY LESSON

author |Foong Zin Yi
illustrator |Estheryu
ISBN |9789673859368
pages |148

Curt, the class bully, is arrogant and rude. He is mean to
his classmates, stray animals and even perfect strangers –
anyone who upsets him. He is nasty to the wrong person and
wakes up the next day looking like a toad.

5

# 04 CHILDREN  50 BEST MALAYSIAN TITLES for International Rights 2017/18

ON SENSES SERIES

publisher| Shakespot (an imprint of Shake Book Projects Sdn. Bhd.)
author | Satya
illustrator | TT
website | www.bookprojects.com.my
size | 180 mm (W) × 180 mm (H)
pages | 32

ZIPPA DOODA HURRY BURRY BABY

ISBN | 9789671514702 ISBN | 9789671514726

This book is about the art of listening. Zippa- This book is about the sense of touch. Hurry
Doo-Da (Zippa) talked a lot and was told to zip Burry Baby’s life was on fast-forward from
it, when he was whispered a secret by a friend. day one. Hurry Burry Baby was born 2 weeks
The silence introduced a world of wonderful before her due date and she learnt to crawl,
sounds to Zippa – the chirpy-chirp-chirp of the walk, and talk as well. One day, something
birds, the rustle of the leaves, the whoosh of happened that forced Hurry Burry Baby to
the wind, the whirr of the fan, the beat of the slow-down. It was a journey of discovery that
heart, the hmmm…haaa of the breath and the forced her to touch the world around her and
silent voice within too. Zippa was constantly she loved it all – the softness, the hardness, the
happy thereafter. Everyone asked Zippa why comfort, the prickliness, the warmth and the
he was always so happy and Zippa answered, love of Mama and Papa too. In the end, Hurry
"Isn’t that how we are all meant to be…" Burry Baby realized that in all the rush, she
HAHAHAAAAAPPY?” missed all that mattered to her and she decided
to slow down from that day on.

6

National Book Council of Malaysia CHILDREN

BOOGER WOOGER WOO-HOO

ISBN | 9789671514719
This book is about the sense of smell. Booger Baby hated having his boogies picked out.
The boogies blocked his nostrils and he breathed through his mouth, very much like a fish –
Bloop…Bloop…Bloop. One day, his mum picked all the boogies out when Booger Baby was
taking a nap. When he woke up, Booger Baby took his first deep breath and smelt the scents
all around him for the first time – the good and the bad. Booger Baby was so fascinated by his
breath that he created his own little mantra – Hmm…Haa, Hmm…Haa, Hmm…Haa

GOBBLY CHOMP CHOMP

ISBN | 9789671514733
This is a story about sharpening the sense of taste. Gobbly-Chomp-Chomp (Gobbly), gobbled
everything down, until one day, he couldn’t move. Gobbly’s mum suggested that Gobbly should
eat slowly and enjoy the food. Gobbly did just that and experienced sensations and tastes that were
completely new. Gobbly felt the food nourish every cell of his body and his body danced in joy. He
realized that when the inside is joyous, the outside is joyous too.

7

# 05 CHILDREN  50 BEST MALAYSIAN TITLES for International Rights 2017/2018

E IS FOR ELEPHANT

author | Yusof Gajah (Mohd Yusof Ismail)
illustrator | Yusof Gajah (Mohd Yusof Ismail)
publisher| Oyez!Books
ISBN | 9789670999692
website | www.oyezbookstore.com
size | 230 mm (W) × 230 mm (H)
pages | 32
Yusof Gajah loves elephants and he loves the alphabet and we love them all. This engaging and
brightly-coloured book featuring Yusof's iconic elephants will have young children learning the ABC
in no time!

8

# 06 National Book Council of Malaysia CHILDREN # 06

ya telah mati. Mitu menanam bangkai Uku di halaman rumahnya. Tidak
Uku ditanam. Tiba-tiba, muncul Puteri Ridu, seorang puteri dari kayangan.
m, Mitu menghalau Puteri Ridu. Puteri Ridu kembali ke kayangan. Mitu
ki Puteri Ridu. Berjayakah Mitu menjejaki Puteri Ridu?

pendidikan ini sesuai untuk bacaan atau dibacakan kepada kanak-kanak
ulang mana-mana bahagian artikel, ilustrasi, dan isi kandungan buku ini
da secara elektronik, fotokopi, mekanik, rakaman, atau cara lain sebelum
n Bahasa dan Pustaka, Peti Surat 10803, 50926 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
norarium.

Data Pengkatalogan-dalam-Penerbitan
strasi: AZRIAN ALI.

Cerita
DAHIRI SAINI

Ilustrasi
AZRIAN ALI

POKOK AJAIB MITU

(Mitu’s Magic Tree)

author | Yusof Gajah (Mohd Yusof Ismail)
illustrator | Yusof Gajah (Mohd Yusof Ismail)
publisher| Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka
ISBN | 9789834914189
website | www.dbp.gov.my
size | 255 mm (W) × 255 mm (H)
pages | 32

This fully illustrated book is about Mitu, a Bidayuh boy. Mitu became very sad when Uku, his pet rat
died. Mitu buried Uku's carcass in his yard. Shortly thereafter, a strange tree grew in the place where
Uku was buried. Suddenly Princess Ridu, a princess from heaven, appeared. Mitu marries Princess
Ridu. Due to a misunderstanding, Mitu became very upset and asked Princess Ridu to return to her
land. Later, Mitu regrets his action and tried to look for Princess Ridu. Will he be successful in his
quest?

9

# 07 CHILDREN' S LITERATURE  50 BEST MALAYSIAN TITLES for International Rights 2017/2018

HAYLEY’S HAPPYLICIOUS SERIES

HAYLEYʼS VIBRANT VEGETABLES

ISBN | 9789671455074
pages | 78

author | Mohana Gill
illustrator | Tan Vay Fern
publisher | Mosat Network Sdn Bhd
website | www.mohanagill.com
facebook | happyliciousseries
size | 220 mm (W) × 220 mm (H)

Haley’s Happylicious is an award-winning series of 8 books for children aged 5- 12 years of age
which uses story, facts and recipes designed to:
• Educate children about good food choices.
• Provide positive knowledge about food and nutrition.
• Instill the message that nutritious food is also tasty.
• Encourage food independence by empowering children to prepare their own meals from easily

sourced and affordable ingredients.
Each book contains stories based on folk-tales, legends or fables.
Each book contains 20 recipes easy to prepare suitable for children.
The recipes featured in the books are designed to appeal to all children in Malaysia and around the
world. They are easy to read and have a broad appeal for children whether they like stories or are
interested in facts or want to try different foods. They are written in simple English so they can be
easily understood by children of different reading levels and language proficiency.

HAYLEYʼS FANTASTIC FRUITS

ISBN | 9789671455012
pages | 70

10

National Book Council of Malaysia CHILDREN

HAYLEY GOES NUTTY

ISBN | 9789671455005
pages | 64

HAYLEYʼS SENSATIONAL SEEDS

ISBN | 9789671455050
pages | 64

HAYLEYʼS GRAINY GOODNESS

ISBN | 9789671455029
pages | 64

HAYLEYʼS PASSION FOR
PULSES

ISBN | 9789671455043
pages | 64

HAYLEYʼS MADNESS FOR
CHOCOLATES

ISBN | 9789671455036
pages | 64

HAYLEYʼS TERRIFIC TEAS

ISBN | 9789671455067
pages | 64

11

# 08 CHILDREN  50 BEST MALAYSIAN TITLES for International Rights 2017/2018

PUTERI GUNUNG LEDANG

(Princess of Mount Ledang)

author | Emila Yusof
illustrator | Emila Yusof
publisher| Oyez!Books
ISBN | 9789670999197
website | www.oyezbookstore.com
size | 262 mm (W) × 212 mm (H)
pages | 24

Puteri Gunung Ledang or Princess of Mount Ledang is a legendary Malaysian folktale.
The princess who lived at the top of Mount Ledang was reputed for her beauty and magical
prowess. The Sultan of Melaka wanted to marry her and as a condition, the princess set
him seven difficult tasks. In this edition, notable illustrator, Emila Yusof used Malaysian
floral motifs that frequently adorn the sarong or pareo, making this book a unique and rich
visual delight.

12

National Book Council of Malaysia CHILDREN # 09

PAK BELANG THE TIGER

author | Rossiti Aishah Rashidi
illustrator | Widiyatno
publisher| Oyez!Books
ISBN | 9789670999180
website | www.oyezbookstore.com
size | 262 mm (W) × 235 mm (H)
pages | 24
Pak Belang is the Malay nickname for tiger and means Mr Stripes. Pak Belang is the King of the
Malaysian forest. He is a carnivore and a top predator. But one animal is not afraid of him. Guess
which? Pak Belang is a good swimmer but is not so good at climbing. He kills his prey instantly with
a bite on the neck. However, Pak Belang has one great enemy – humans. Today, there are not many
tigers left in the wild. Pak Belang, the Malayan tiger is on the list of critically endangered animals.
Simple text combined with outstanding realistic and detailed illustrations make Rossiti's books
winners. Pak Belang the Tiger is no exception – the illustrations by artist Widiyatno are breathtaking.

13

# 10 CHILDREN  50 BEST MALAYSIAN TITLES for International Rights 2017/2018

)Oyez!

a pangolin with a peculiar problem. PIP’S PECULIAR PROBLEM
mother takes him to see a porcupine, a

and a monkey in search for a cure.
an anyone help poor Pip with his
ar problem?

LIM LAY KOON

)Oyez! www.oyezbookstore.com

)

PIPʼS PECULIAR PROBLEM

author | Lim Lay Koon
illustrator | Lim Lay Koon
publisher| Oyez!Books
ISBN | 9789670999135
website | www.oyezbookstore.com
size | 252 mm (W) × 205 mm (H)
pages | 32

Pip the pangolin has a problem. It's peculiar because pangolins shouldn't have such a problem.
Mama tries to find a cure from the friendly animals in the rainforest but nothing helps. But one day,
when Pip's little sister is in danger, instinct takes over and Pip is finally cured! A list of animal facts at
the end of the book helps children learn more about animals that can be found in the rainforest.

14

National Book Council of Malaysia CHILDREN

In the lush jungle of Borneo, a young pangolin called
Pip lived with his Mama, Papa, and little sister, Penny.
Pangolins have long tails and long sticky tongues to
slurp up tiny ants and insects.

They are covered in hard scales. When in danger,
pangolins roll into a tight scaly ball to protect
themselves.
All pangolins can do that except Pip!

However hard he tried, Pip just couldn’t tuck his head under his tail and
roll into a scaly ball. What a peculiar problem for a pangolin!
Mama was at her wit’s end. Then she had an idea. “Let’s visit Sifu
Porcupine tomorrow. Perhaps he can help you,” she said.
Pip was puzzled. How could a porcupine possibly teach a pangolin to roll
into a scaly ball?

15

# 11 CHILDREN  50 BEST MALAYSIAN TITLES for International Rights 2017/2018

TIGA EKOR GAJAH

(The Three Elephants)

author | Yusof Gajah (Mohd Yusof Ismail)
illustrator | Yusof Gajah (Mohd Yusof Ismail)
publisher| Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka
ISBN | 9789834914189
website | www.dbp.gov.my
size | 242 mm (H) × 178 mm (W)
pages | 44
This book is about three elephants, Jojo, Jiji and Jaja that climbed a hill to find out what is behind it.
They were puzzled when they found three different ponds behind the hill. Driven by curiosity, they
entered into the different ponds. As a result, their white bodies changed colours. The three elephants
were really happy. However, rain flooded the surrounding areas. When the flood subsided, they
found out that their body turned black.

16

National Book Council of Malaysia CHILDREN # 12

Chapter 0

How It All Started

d egg from school. That was how it all started. Mum got a little worried
ed egg. What a strange thing to bring home. How did it come about? It

said. Only a psycOhoNloEgisRt cEouDld EheGlpGsolAveNthDe mAystGeryR, sEo AshTe bDrouEgAhtLmeOF MISCHIEF

is a mind expert,asuotmhoert hi|n Jgulnikee Ca mhiainndgdetective. That was what Mum
ist is someone whilluostkrantoowr |s Awmhymyiou bring home a red egg from school. She
er things, such asIpSwuBNbhl yishyeoru|| 9Md7oP8nH9’t6Gw74raon1ut5pt3o6Pd3uo2byloisuhrinhgomSdewn.orBkh.d.
atnaybootuhtetrhtehriendgse giswpnigzaeemgtb hesyaistte liI fe|||h, 82waf28rdwo0tmwom.stmmeheept(mhhWeop)pmu×sbeync2lihts2hoI0ilnwomggaims.sctb.o(oIHmrtn) .

you about those many other things, and how the red egg

Nine-year-old Owen lives a jolly life in beautiful Penang. But he has a BIG pmrfoalibpkelehsmehr.eimEvseeryeoanemfiinndds
neighbour’s cat. that
him exasper3ating. Even the
red egg from school. What’s this red egg
One day, he brings home a

detective? Will Owen ever find out what’s really wrong with him?

17

# 13 CHILDREN  50 BEST MALAYSIAN TITLES for International Rights 2017/2018

KELUARGA SI MAMAT

(Si Mamat’s Family)

author | Lat (Datuk Mohammad Nor Khalid)
illustrator | Lat (Datuk Mohammad Nor Khalid)
publisher| MPH Group Publishing Sdn. Bhd.
ISBN | 9789674153557
website | www.mphpublishing.com
size | 210 mm (W) × 280 mm (H)
pages | 112
Keluarga Si Mamat tells the story of a young boy, Lat, and his childhood in a kampung (village).

10

18

National Book Council of Malaysia CHILDREN

13
54
62

85

19

# 14 CHILDREN  50 BEST MALAYSIAN TITLES for International Rights 2017/2018

SHADOWS

author | Maya Zaharudin
illustrator | Shufitri Mohd Shukardi
publisher| MPH Group Publishing Sdn. Bhd.
ISBN | 9789674154028
website | www.mphpublishing.com
size | 220 mm (W) × 220 mm (H)
pages | 44
Poor Adam! First, he is teased by his brothers for being a coward and the next moment, he finds
himself in a land of shadows where a mysterious voice guides him as he goes on an adventure with
a prince.
Shadows is a magical adventure set in the world of wayang kulit – the ancient Malay art of shadow
puppet plays – that adults and children can enjoy together.

20

# 14

# 15 LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE  50 BEST MALAYSIAN TITLES for International Rights 2017/2018

MASJID – SELECTED MOSQUES
AND MUSOLLAS IN MALAYSIA

author | Azim A. Aziz
publisher| ATSA Architects Sdn. Bhd.
ISBN | 9789833631049
website | www.atsa.com.my
size | 305 mm (W) × 220 mm (H)
pages | 753

Masjid – Selected Mosques and Musollas in Malaysia is a compilation of the various mosque
designs that have been used in Malaysia to define the mosque as a place of prayer. This
monograph compiles within its 700-plus pages, the various mosques from all 14 states in Malaysia,
accompanied by hundreds of sumptuous exterior and interior photographs, three dimensional and
CAD architectural drawings, satellite maps, histories and architectural descriptions, with some of
them contributed by various scholars from a number of Malaysian institutions. Many of the mosques
were chosen to be featured due to their design significance and the different architectural styles. A
total of 109 Malaysian mosques and musollas are featured inside, beginning with the earliest, the
Kampung Laut Mosque in Kota Bharu, Kelantan.

22

# 16 National Book Council of Malaysia LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE

23

# 16 LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE  50 BEST MALAYSIAN TITLES for International Rights 2017/2018

MASJID – SELECTED MOSQUES
FROM THE ISLAMIC WORLD

author | Azim A. Aziz
publisher| ATSA Architects Sdn. Bhd.
ISBN | 9789833631018
website | www.atsa.com.my
size | 305 mm (W) × 220 mm (H)
pages | 822

Masjid – Selected Mosques from the Islamic World compiles within its 800-plus pages, the
various mosques from around the world, accompanied by hundreds of sumptuous exterior and
interior photographs, architectural drawings (including original 3D and CAD drawings), floor plans,
satellite maps, histories and architectural descriptions. Many of the mosques were chosen to be
featured due to their design, relevance in history and their various architectural styles: Arabian, West
Africa/Sahara, Fatimid, Moorish, Mamluk, Iran and Central Asia, Timurid, Indian or Mughal, Anatolia
and Ottoman, Chinese, Southeast Asia, Early Modern, Post Modern, Late Modernist and Sustainable
Green. A total of 112 mosques from around the world are featured, beginning with the earliest, the
Al-Masjid Al-Haram in Makkah (Mecca) and concluding with several interesting futuristic models.

24

National Book Council of Malaysia LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE

25

# 17 LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE  50 BEST MALAYSIAN TITLES for International Rights 2017/2018

RELIGION, CULTURE, SOCIETY: READINGS IN
HUMANITIES AND REVEALED KNOWLEDGE

author | Mohammad A. Quayum and Hassan Ahmed Ibrahim (Eds.)
publisher| Silverfish Books
ISBN | 9789833221646
website | www.silverfishbooks.com
size | 218 mm (W) × 148 mm (H)
pageS | 288

This book contains eleven articles by lecturers from the Kulliyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and
Human Sciences, International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM). For those not familiar with the
University’s nomenclature, “Kulliyyah” is an Arabic word that means “college” or “faculty”.
A frequently asked question in the post-9/11 period is whether Islam is at war with the West. Is Islam
an exclusivist and extremist religion that rejects and even seeks to destroy Western civilisation?
Is there an inherent clash of civilisation between Islam and the West as has been promulgated by
Bernard Lewis, Daniel Pipes, Samuel Huntington and, most recently, by several Western nativist-
jingoist-xenophobic political leaders such as Donald Trump in America, Marine Le Pen in France,
Pauline Hanson in Australia and Geert Wilders in the Netherlands?

26

National Book Council of Malaysia LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE # 18

OF TEMPLE AND TATUNG TRADITION
IN SINGKAWANG

author | Elena Chai
publisher| UNIMAS Publisher
ISBN | 9789672008248
website | www.publisher.unimas.my
size | 228 mm (H) × 152 mm (W)
pages | 176

Cap Goh Meh, known as Zhang Yet Ban to the locals, is closely associated with the street cleansing
ritual performed the day before. The network between temples and tatung represents an important
social affliation in Singkawang community. Sin Min San (or temple celebration) is the occasion
for temples and tatung to rekindle their ties and strengthen their rapport. Rather than competing
on prowess, the tatungs show mutual respect. This book hopes to present Cap Goh Meh of
Singkawang as not just a one-off mass ritual performance. It is a tradition embedded in the belief
systems of the Hakka Chinese and Dayak of Singkawang.

27

# 19 LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE  50 BEST MALAYSIAN TITLES for International Rights 2017/2018

Tak Lerai di Asak Zaman Dikir BaratTak Lerai di Asak Zaman

Dikir Barat Seni Hiburan Rakyat Lim Swee Tin Mohd Sulhie bin Yusuf Seni Hiburan Rakyat

Lim Swee Tin Mohd Sulhie bin Yusuf

DIKIR BARAT – SENI HIBURAN RAKYAT

(Dikir Barat – Folk Art Entertainment)

author | Lim Swee Tin and Mohd SulhieYusuf
publisher| UUM Press
ISBN | 9789670876900 (Soft Cover)
| 9789670876955 (Hard Cover)
website | www.uumpress.uum.edu.my
size | 260 mm (H) × 290 mm (W)
pages | 100

Dikir Barat is a kind of folk art entertainment. It is deemed to be a folk art as it is performed by
people to entertain their own community. It actually started in Malaysia in the early 20th century,
became one of the very popular art forms, enjoyed by many and considered quite entertaining. Dikir
Barat is performed in groups typically between 15 to 25 members. Each group is divided into two
components, namely the musicians who accompany the singers, and the singers who sing, in an
orderly and structured arrangement. Dikir Barat can be likened to an ‘institution’, uniting the people
and a powerful tool or component in fostering a harmonious lifestyle. This book provides a fairly
comprehensive history of dikir barat, its development from one era to another, as well as specific
explanation about performance techniques, including some innovative steps and reforms so that this
folk art remains relevant to the demands of audiences today, while firmly maintaining its authenticity.

28

National Book Council of Malaysia LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE

50 Tak Lerai Diasak Zaman Dikir Barat Seni Hiburan Rakyat

29

# 20 LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE  50 BEST MALAYSIAN TITLES for International Rights 2017/2018

BORN IN MALAYSIA: A PHOTOGRAPHER’S
JOURNEY

author | Kenny Loh
publisher| MPH Group Publishing Sdn. Bhd.
ISBN | 9789674153953
website | www.mphpublishing.com
size | 165 mm (W) × 200 mm (H)
pages | 196

In 2010, Kenny Loh returned to Malaysia after almost two decades abroad and found that so much
had changed. Everything was different and new. With camera and notebook in hand, he set out to
rediscover the land of his birth.
Born in Malaysia is the result of this three-year journey.
This book is a portrait of a Malaysia in transition; many of the traditional businesses and crafts that
once drove the local economy have entered their twilight years. It celebrates the individuals from all
walks of life who have played their parts in building this nation.
Born in Malaysia also looks at Malaysians who were born after Independence. Their stories are an
important counterpoint to those of their elders as they provide a view of the future.
In his preface, Kenny writes of the many people he met and photographed, not all of whom are in
this book but nevertheless left a lasting impression on him: “Like me, they were all born in Malaysia.
And they are the keepers of our heritage.”
This book is a tribute to them and everyone who is Malaysian, not just by birth but also in spirit.

30

National Book Council of Malaysia LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE

31

# 21 LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE  50 BEST MALAYSIAN TITLES for International Rights 2017/2018

LIFE’S LIKE THAT

author | Lydia Teh
publisher| MPH Group Publishing Sdn. Bhd.
ISBN | 9789674153823
website | www.mphpublishing.com
size | 198 mm (W) × 130 mm (H)
pages | 292

In this collection of amusing meditations on Malaysian life and its complexities and contradictions,
Lydia Teh dives into the depths of Malaysian life: family, pregnancies, babies, motherhood,
hobbies, festivities, daily ablutions, pets and other calamities. Not only has she imbued her stories
of homespun ordinariness and nostalgia with a luminous sheen, she also captures the essence of
being Malaysian with wit and bracing honesty.
With an utter lack of pretension, Teh’s candid tales bring to life the warm humour of Malaysian life
in all its treacly sweetness and capture the heart and soul of Malaysia. Her vision of Malaysian life
is fresh and funny: fresh in the way it makes you look at things in a new light and funny in the way it
occasionally makes you want to cry.

32

National Book Council of Malaysia LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE #22

GROWING UP IN KL:
10 YEARS OF THE BANGSAR BOY

author | Niki Cheong
publisher| MPH Group Publishing Sdn. Bhd.
ISBN | 9789674154066
website | www.mphpublishing.com
size | 198 mm (W) × 128 mm (H)
pages | 208

Growing Up in KL is a selection of stories from “The Bangsar Boy” column in The Star, which
began in 2006. Featured alongside these stories are musings, observations and responses to the
original articles by a host of Malaysian personalities including Yasmin Yusuff, Elaine Daly, Low Ngai
Yuen, Carmen Soo, Ivy Josiah, Zahim Albakri, Jo Kukathas, Kuah Jenhan, Sasha Saidin, Rina Omar,
Hansen Lee, Wong Chun Wai, YAM Tengku Zatashah binti Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, Sean
Ghazi, Daphne Iking, Aishah Sinclair, Adam Carruthers, Davina Goh, Chelsia Ng and many more.
For over a decade, Niki Cheong’s “The Bangsar Boy” has been capturing the pulse of Malaysian
life through the lens of a young urbanite growing up in Kuala Lumpur. Through anecdotes from
his childhood, stories told by his parents or simply his experiences over the years, Niki has invited
readers to reflect on what it’s like to be Malaysian in the 21st century. Sometimes funny, often
nostalgic, his unique way of sharing stories from his life also paints a portrait of Kuala Lumpur and
Malaysia from the 1980s until today.

33

# 23 LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE  50 BEST MALAYSIAN TITLES for International Rights 2017/2018

THE ART OF CHINESE TRANSLATION OF PUNS
IN SHAKESPEAREʼS SONNETS

author | Zhang Chengzhi
publisher| USM Press
ISBN | 9789674610562
website | www.penerbit.usm.my
size | 240 mm (W) × 165 mm (H)
pages | 130

The translation of puns opens up a world of possibilities especially when it involves the clash of
cultures between the West and the East. Although puns may be extremely difficult or some may
say impossible to translate, the lack of studies on the translation of puns cannot prove or reject
the notions put forward by the scholars, thus raising the issue of translatability. Seeking to clearly
illustrate the nature and translatability of puns, this book compiles the result of a scientific study on
pun translation from English into Chinese that has systematically examined the Chinese translation
of Shakespeare’s Sonnets. A practical guide for translators and students in translation studies, this
book fulfils the needs for theoretical and practical details especially with the rare chapter that focuses
on Chinese translators of the Shakespeare’s Sonnets.

34

National Book Council of Malaysia LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE # 24

GAMBUS: SPESIFIKASI DAN CARA BERMAIN

(Gambus: Specifications and Playing Methods)

author | Raja Zulkarnain Raja Mohd Yusof
publisher| Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka
ISBN | 9789834907259
website | www.dbp.gov.my
size | 260 mm (H) × 190 mm (W)
pages | 84

Qud is a short-necked string musical instrument which originates from Turkey and the Arabian
countries. In the Malay archipelago, Qud is known as gambus, komuz, kobuz or qupuz. Gambus
has been used by the Malay community since the 14th century, especially in the form of Arabian

musics accompanying the zapin dances. This book is specially written to help readers explore
this unique musical instrument in more detail and for them to learn the methods and
techniques in playing it. This book is also written for the purpose of documentation
and dissemination of information to ensure the preservation of the art of
playing the gambus. The author of this book, Raja Zulkarnain
Raja Mohd Yusof, is a former student of Malaysia’s
most prominent gambus musician, the late
Haji Fadzil bin Ahmad.

35

# 25 LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE  50 BEST MALAYSIAN TITLES for International Rights 2017/2018

YOUNG MALAYSIAN ARTISTS:
NEW OBJECT(ION) III

author | Various Authors
publisher| Malaysian Institute of Translation & Books / Petronas Gallery
ISBN | 9789674602444
website | www.itbm.com.my / www.galeripetronas.com.my
size | 248 mm (W) × 248 mm (H)
pages | 140
Young Malaysian Artists: New Object(ion) III features the latest works of art by young artists and
gives them a head start to a relevant art career. Young Malaysian Artists: New Object(ion) III features
39 artists with 39 selected artworks. Their creativity is expressed in many ways based on the theme
‘The Everydays’.

36

National Book Council of Malaysia LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE # 26

PERANAKAN CINA KELANTAN: SINTESIS CINA
TANAH BESAR DAN MELAYU TANAH MELAYU

(Kelantan’s Peranakan Chinese: The Synthesis of Mainland
Chinese and Malays of the Malay Peninsula)

author | Zinitulniza Abdul Kadir
publisher| Malaysian Institute of Translation & Books
ISBN | 9789674604158
website | www.itbm.com.my
size | 300 mm (W) × 300 mm (H)
pages | 178

Having arrived by boat after traversing the vast seas on a long journey from China hundreds of
years ago, they finally decided to settle in Kelantan. The challenge with Kelantan was that it was a
state dominated by Malays comprising a different religion, language and customs. Therefore, how
would they preserve their identity as Chinese in a community with a strong sense of Malay identity?
This book shares how the Chinese village community in Kelantan has survived for more than 300
years, which proves that unity is no mere rhetoric. The Malays are respected while the Chinese are
welcomed. As the saying goes, ‘When in Rome, do as the Romans do’. It is tolerance and mutual
respect that gave birth to Kelantan’s Peranakan Chinese ... Chinese who are Malay in appearance
while staying true to the soul of their ancestors.

37

# 27 LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE  50 BEST MALAYSIAN TITLES for International Rights 2017/2018

WHAT A COLORFUL WORLD:
AN ILLUSTRATED TRAVELOGUE

author | Saadon Ishak (Don)
publisher| Malaysian Institute of Translation & Books
ISBN | 9789674604158
website | www.itbm.com.my
size | 268 mm (W) × 268 mm (H)
pages | 132
What a Colourful World is an illustrated travelogue inspired from the private art journals of the
traveling artist and cartoonist, Don.
The artist captures the true essence of the sights on his journey to various parts of the globe
including Europe, North Africa, Levant, Asia, Oceania and America.
He came, he saw, he drew and made narrations of his thoughts and share his stories in this
delightful book.

38

National Book Council of Malaysia LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE

09092016 WACW_COVER-with.125Bleed.indd 3 9/9/16 5:02 PM

09092016 WACW_COVER-with.125Bleed.indd 7 7

9/9/16 5:02 PM

09092016 WACW_COVER-with.125Bleed.indd 13 13
9/9/16 5:02 PM

09092016 WACW_COVER-with.125Bleed.indd 15 15

9/9/16 5:02 PM

09092016 WACW_COVER-with.125Bleed.indd 71 09092016 WACW_COVER-with.125Bleed.indd 65 65
9/9/16 5:04 PM
71
39
9/9/16 5:04 PM

# 28 LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE  50 BEST MALAYSIAN TITLES for International Rights 2017/2018

AN INTRODUCTION TO MODERN
MALAYSIAN LITERATURE (Second Edition)

author | Muhammad Haji Salleh
publisher| Malaysian Institute of Translation & Books
ISBN | 9789674305239
website | www.itbm.com.my
size | 185 mm (W) × 135 mm (H)
pages | 292

This book traces the development of Malaysian literature from the final decades of the 18th century
when Europe intruded into the Malay World, through social changes and woes, two World Wars,
and finally to the crowded decades of the 1960’s to 2000. Whereas authors were generally very
responsive to the predicament of the people – the state of being colonised, the poverty of the
agricultural labourers and rubber tappers – as artists, they were also experimenting with new
forms of the novel, free verse and modern drama. These new experiments opened the way for
them to retain their traditional Malaysian literary traits and styles while at the same time partake in
international trends.
This is the first time in many years that a history of Malaysian literature has been made available
to a wide range of contemporary research and weaves together the three important literary strands
from Sarawak, Sabah and the Peninsula into a single national literary expression. It also provides
ample space and due discussion to the works of writers from different cultural backgrounds and
environments.

40

National Book Council of Malaysia LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE # 29

WHY I TRAVEL: THE JOURNAL
OF A “BLIND HIKER”

author | Aziff Azuddin
publisher| MPH Group Publishing Sdn. Bhd.
ISBN | 9789674153168
website | www.mphpublishing.com
size | 198 mm (W) × 128 mm (H)
pages | 144
How does an ageing community die out? Is Pahang’s best ikan patin really in Temerloh? And why
would a Frenchwoman be at all remotely interested in migrating to a remote boat-building village in
Terengganu?
Why I Travel is young journalist Aziff Azuddin’s impressions of an undiscovered side of his country.
It’s an exploration of caves, fishing islands and antique markets, and meeting the individuals and
communities that complete this national tapestry called Malaysia.

41



National Book Council of Malaysia FLORA & FAUNA # 30

GUNUNG PENRISSEN: THE ROOF OF WESTERN
BORNEO

author | Jayasilan Mohd-Azlan, Andrew Alek Tuen and Indraneil Das (Eds.)
publisher| UNIMAS Publisher/Natural History Publications (Borneo)
ISBN | 9789672008156
website | www.publisher.unimas.my
size | 215 mm (W) × 155 mm (H)
pages | 192

The Borneo Highlands are both mysterious and magical. They are a living museum of remarkable
plants and animals.These forests harbor trees ranging from the stunted to the towering, many with
exquisite flowers, ferns, herbaceous flora, as well as uncountable endemic insects and vertebrate
animals. There is a lack of information on the biodiversity of Gunung Penrissen, but a growing
demand for such information from visitors, scientists, sociologists and conservation managers.
This book draws material from new research and a review of literature. The many images provide
breathtaking views of the site for tourists as well as offer important geological and species-specific
information for researchers and the general public. The geomorphology of this area is brought to
life by maps painstakingly produced for the volume. The botanical chapters showcase some of the
unique flora of the Borneo Highlands including the pitcher plants, Rafflesia and its host plant, aroids
and other ground flora and Amorphophallus.

43

# 31 FLORA & FAUNA  50 BEST MALAYSIAN TITLES for International Rights 2017/2018

Burung-burung

Malaysia

BIRDS OF MALAYSIA

MALAYSIA BIODIVERSITY INFORMATION SYSTEM (MyBIS)

disunting oleh
Allen Jeyarajasingam

Norhayati Ahmad
Yasser Mohamed Arifin

Rahmah Ilias

BURUNG-BURUNG MALAYSIA: MALAYSIA
BIODIVERSITY INFORMATION SYSTEM (MYBIS)

(Birds of Malaysia)

author | Allen Jeyarajasingam, Norhayati Ahmad, Yasse2r22M92ohamed

Arifin and Rahman Illias (Eds.) Pitta megarhyncha

publisher| UKM Press Mangrove Pitta
ISBN | 9789674124434 Pacat Bakau
©Mohd Rosmadi Hassan

website | www.ukmpress.ukm.my

size | 260 mm (W) × 260 mm (H)

pageS | 168

This book contains the latest data and information about bird species in Malaysia which are

presented in a clear and interesting way. The best photos have been carefully selected to grace

the pages of this book, complete with QR codes for additional information on the website of

Malaysia Biodiversity Information System (MyBIS). The purpose of the website is to create a central

information repository that includes information about biodiversity in Malaysia. This year, MyBIS is

proud to produce the first edition of biological diversity series on the birds in Malaysia. This book

features a total of 19 orders, 52 families and 189 bird species which can be fou2n2d29th0roughout
Pitta guajana
Malaysia.
Malayan Banded Pitta

Pacat Bukit

©Muhammad Al Zahri

44

118 B i r d s o f M a l a y s i a

National Book Council of Malaysia FLORA & FAUNA

Muka surat bertentangan/Opposite page Atas/Above
47811
20570 Ceyx rufidorsa
Actenoides concretus Rufous-backed Dwarf Kingfisher
Pekaka Api
Rufous-collared Kingfisher ©Mohd Suhaimi Mohd Yusof
Pekaka Rimba Besar
©Mohd Suhaimi Mohd Yusof B u r u n g - b u r u n g M a l a y s i a 53

Muka sura©tPRbeMAu2ekofcr0aothkt5eudean7snSt-0Racuoniomhgilladabairamnee/sBdiOMeKcpsooipanhrongdsfciYistrueheseptoruafgse Atas/Above

C4e78y1x1rufidorsa
©PReMukofaohkudasS-Abupahicakiemdi
Dwarf Kingfisher
Mohd Yusof

21406
Erythrura prasina
B u r u n g - b u r u n g ©CPMiMianak-utlhaEaaiklmeyodrms JPiaaaadrrurAomlt5fZi3nachhri

52311 21764
Lonchura atricapilla Lonchura maja
©PCiMhpeiotshRtdnauwStuaMhauinmiai Mohd Yusof
88 B i r d s o f M a l a y s i a ©PWiKphioittaeUy-bhZaehnaodnegd Munia 22150
Ying Padda oryzivora
60 B i r d s o f M a l a y s i a ©CJaiKavokaaJSyapZwaharoronwg Ying

Burung - burung Malaysia 89

Kiri/Left Burung - burung Malaysia 61
2M18e8ro8ps viridis

BB©leuMree-okthh-dbroeSaretuekhdaTiBamdeiaeMh-eoHahtudejarYnusof

Muka surat bertentangan/Opposite
page
2N2y0c3t3yornis amictus

RB©eedNre-obkre-hbaaerydraeetkdi AJBhaemnega-geduatteMr erah

22286
Erythropitta arquata

Blue-banded Pitta
Pacat Belang Biru
©Ambo Sakka Mappeasse

45