12 Malaysian Children's Books That Every Parent Should Get For Their Child
Even adults can learn a thing or two from these stories.
By Amir Razman — 08 Sep 2022, 07:48 PM
As today, 8 September, is World Literacy Day, let's reflect on the importance of literature as a means of developing a well-educated society
At a very young age, we derive valuable lessons through books that help us navigate the world as adults. Whether they be cultural tales, historical retellings, or stories of peculiar creatures and plants that inhabit it, we can learn a lot about a place from these stories.
These are some of the best books out there for kids to know more about this unique land we call Malaysia.
1. In The Rainforest by Rossiti Aishah Rashidi
From orangutans to pangolins, this is a great read that serves as an introduction to the rich diversity that inhabits the Malaysian rainforests.
In this informative book, the author shows the kinds of animals that can be found high up in the trees and the tiny ones that live under the ground.
The tour ends with the author asking an important question to the reader — what will happen to all the animals that live in the rainforest if it is no longer there?
2. The Wild Treehouse of Borneo by Gwen Hew
Toobi is a native Sabahan who befriends three eccentric-looking creatures who have lost their homes in the Borneo rainforest due to the "big red machines" (presumably referring to modern equipment used in land development).
The kind-hearted Toobi lends a helping hand to build a new home for his newfound friends. This is a well-told story, inspired by the longstanding issue of deforestation in Malaysia.
3. Longhouse Days by Jainal Amambing
Author Jainal Amambing relives his fondest childhood memories of growing up in Sabah in a traditional Rungus longhouse. The book depicts the various aspects of the Rungus lifestyle that Jainal holds so dearly.
Told in a nostalgic manner, the author tells his story in a way that makes us appreciate the indigenous cultures in Malaysia but also fully aware of their gradual decline among modern societies.
4. Legendary Princesses of Malaysia by Raman
A vast majority of children would be familiar with iconic Disney princesses like Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella.
Malaysia is also known for its princesses, and these women play a big part in its rich folklore and legendary historical accounts.
Many of them embody the same beauty and bravery as those depicted in western stories.
5. The Devouring Rock by Basari Mat Yasit
A tragic tale of how a loving mother got her heart broken, this book pays tribute to a classic Malay folktale 'Batu Belah Batu Bertangkup'.
Fun fact: another retelling of the story can be found in the 1959 movie of the same name by Jamil Sulong.
6. My Mother's Kitchen by Emila Yusof
This story follows an aspiring young chef in a typical Malaysian kitchen, as she watches and helps her mother prepare a meal. Along the way, she discovers the many spices and ingredients that make her mother's food so delicious.
This is a great introduction to the flavours that make up Malaysia's amazing cuisine, such as curry leaves, belacan, petai, coconut milk, and many more.
7. We Love Trees by Rossiti Aishah Rashidi
This story follows siblings Alia and Ariff on their quest to discover the various trees found in Malaysia. They learn about the special fruits that these trees bear such as the rambutan, durian and starfruit.
8. Where The Stars Come To Play by Lim Lay Har
Azmi embarks on a journey along the river with his father and arrives at a place where he is surrounded by Malaysia's magical fireflies for the first time.
At the end of the book, his father reminds him that there aren't many fireflies anymore due to the pollution of the river, reminding him of the importance of conservation.
9. Puteri Gambus / Princess of The Lute by Awang Fadilah
This bilingual book is perfect for those still getting started in the Malay language.
This tale is about a young girl who learns how to play the gambus, a type of flute that is used in traditional East Malaysian music.
Her talents do not go unnoticed, as she becomes the first woman to represent her village in a flute competition.
10. Tasu To The Rescue by Antud Didi
Another story featuring the Rungus community of Sabah, this tale is centres around a loving dog named Tasu.
His owners are saddened by the empty field in their village as they are unable to obtain any seeds to plant. Overhearing their conversation, Tasu attempts to help by finding a way to rejuvenate the land.
11. Pak Belang The Tiger by Rossiti Aishah Rashidi
In this book, Rossiti celebrates the mighty Malayan Tiger, affectionately referred to as 'Pak Belang'.
Did you know they are incredibly strong swimmers? These are just some of the fun facts she provides readers with about Malaysia's national animal.
Amid all these interesting tid-bits, she mentions Pak Belang's number one enemy, the humans, and the impact they have had on the dwindling number of tigers in the wild.
12. The Magic Buffalo by Jainal Amambing
This beautifully illustrated book is about a young boy named Sasarinaga. Although he is a friendly person, he is often left alone because, unlike the other boys in his village, Sasarinaga did not have a buffalo to play with.
Using his skills of carving and weaving, he makes his own buffalo using things he finds lying around and they go on many adventures.
