PRIMUS - The Primates of Peninsular Malaysia is first tome to feature all of Peninsular Malaysia's primate species complete with recent photos, combined with historic reprints

The Datai Langkawi has announced the launch of limited-edition book, PRIMUS - The Primates of Peninsular Malaysia, a magnificent tome documenting Malaysia's diverse and endangered primate species. Born of a year of intensive labour and featuring awe-inspiring photography by celebrated wildlife photographer Peter Ong and a foreword by renowned conservationist Dr Jane Goodall, the impressive tome transports readers to wondrous rainforests of Peninsular Malaysia.

PRIMUS is an invitation to step into the heart of the rainforest and a call to action for those who hear the whispers of its wonders. As readers turn its pages they will be transported on a visual odyssey, as they discover the beauty, playful demeanour and acrobatic grace of the Dusky Langur, Slow Sunda Loris, Lar Gibbon, Siamang, Agile Gibbon, Raffles' Banded Langur, and Robinson's Banded Langur. With each turn, readers will know they are actively protecting the haven of these wonderous animals. Recognised for its exceptional craftsmanship and significance, PRIMUS won the “Limited Editions” category in the Asian Print Awards 2024.

The exclusive first edition of PRIMUS is limited to 100 hand-numbered copies and 20 lettered copies hors commerce, each signed by the photographer and author himself and exclusively printed to support The Datai Pledge. The limited-edition PRIMUS books feature gold-foil stamping and are adorned with a bespoke belt, handwoven by the community of Kampung Lunguyan, Keningau, Sabah, led by Emily Jeneble. Crafted from hand-harvested and dyed bamboo, these belts feature intricate wild fig (ficus, 'buah ara' in Malay language) and leaf motifs, a tribute to the primates' favourite food. Designed by Jennifer P. Linggi of North Borneo Baskets, each band is a unique work of art, celebrating the beauty and skill of Malaysian artisans.

"I was absolutely thrilled and honoured to be able to collaborate with The Datai Pledge on such a meaningful project. This is a publication of multiple firsts - the first to feature all the primate species of Peninsular Malaysia complete with recent photos, combined with historic reprints of the first visual records of these primates that were captured in watercolour in the early 19th century. It is also the first Asian publication to feature a foreword from renowned conservationist Dr Jane Goodall. Malaysia is considered one of 17 mega biodiverse nations on the planet - yet still so little is known about the wealth of species that support our ecosystem. This publication aims to address the knowledge divide, not just by naming these primates, but also by putting a face to them. In the words of Dr Jane Goodall, 'Only if we understand, will we care. Only if we care, will we help. Only if we help, shall all be saved.'” Peter Ong commented on this collaboration.

Encased in luxurious linen and boasting over 90 captivating primate portraits, PRIMUS is a visual and educational treasure designed by Ng Siew Khain and supported by Yayasan Hasanah, the impact-based foundation and philanthropic arm of Khazanah Nasional Berhad, the sovereign wealth fund of Malaysia. Signed giclee and exclusive illustrations add a touch of artistic magic, all presented on museum-grade paper. Every aspect of PRIMUS reflects a commitment to the environment. The book is printed with care on 100% recycled paper with matte finish, ensuring rich colours and the primates' essence captured authentically, in tribute to nature's beauty.

PRIMUS also features reprints of the earliest watercolour paintings of four species of primates in Peninsular Malaysia from the 19th century (commissioned by William Farquhar, who served as the sixth British Resident of Melaka between 1813 and 1818). The original watercolours are in the possession of the National Museum of Singapore.

All proceeds from the sale of the limited-edition copies go to The Datai Langkawi's environmental and community impact initiative, The Datai Pledge, to help regenerate and support Langkawi's rich biodiversity. Guests will have the opportunity to view and purchase the book at the resort's boutique.

The Datai Pledge was founded on the belief that travel has the potential to be transformative; not only for the traveller but also for the host community and was created on the premise of protecting the biodiversity and supporting the local community of Langkawi, for today and the future.

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