‘A Collection of Peng Shih Lin’s Artwork’, a tribute to the late poet, writer, artist

THE compilation of artworks and poetry by the late poet, writer and artist Peng Shih Lin into a book is a poignant tribute from her five children, honouring the beautiful legacy of the scholar.

Titled “A Collection of Peng Shih Lin’s Artwork”, the book serves to immortalise Peng’s works, who was affectionately known by her pen name, Cui Yuan.

Peng’s youngest son Leong Chao Seong shared that he was entrusted with the task of preserving her works following her passing in 2004.

“In 2010, we began the process of compiling all her works, and the book took more than five years to complete, involving compilation, translation, and editing,” he said.

“We managed to print 2,000 copies eight years ago, and now we’ve decided to officially launch it to share with the public.”

Leong (left), giving Chan (right) a token of appreciation as Liew looks on.

The bilingual compilation, presented in both Mandarin and English, was edited by the late Dr Lee Kean Yau, a former lecturer in Chinese Literature at New Era College & University.

The 183-page book features photographs and around 100 pieces of Peng’s work, 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.

A mother of five, she was also an advisor to the Malaysian Calligraphy Association.

Her 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,” Leong explained, “as the language used in her works often drew from ancient formal styles, making modern translations difficult.

“There were no perfect phrases to convey the original meanings, so Dr Lee had to seek the closest interpretations,” he said.

The book launch, held at Oasis Corporate Park, Petaling Jaya, was officiated by Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Liew Chin Tong.

The event also gathered close acquaintances, students, and friends of Peng, who shared memories of the esteemed scholar.

The Writer’s Association of Chinese Medium of Malaysia chairman Prof Fan Pik Wah said the book played an important role in cultural heritage and inheritance.

“Peng has said that she hoped her art can be preserved so that the younger generation would appreciate the works that she had done.

“I would like to congratulate Leong for making this book happen and every painting was preserved well.

“Peng’s work not only showcased her passion in art and poetry but more importantly, depicted her reminiscence of her hometown in China and after coming to Malaysia, her warm interaction with the locals here.

“This itself is vital in detailing the scenes and how things were back in those days,” she said, adding such works are important to document both China and Malaysia in the past.

Star Media Group (SMG) Bhd Group chief executive officer Chan Seng Fatt, who attended the launch, expressed his 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 relations, and this book further strengthens the importance of cultural heritage.

“I believe the collection will be treasured by both art enthusiasts and academics in Malaysia.”

Liew said the book would give the public great insight into Peng’s artistry.

“There are very few people who are good in poetry, art and writing but Peng is profoundly talented in all three.

“In his work, we can see the changing times of Ipoh and the character she mentioned in her work,” he said.

The public can purchase the book at major bookstores throughout Malaysia.