PRIMUS - THE PRIMATES OF PENINSULAR MALAYSIA LIMITED EDITION BOOK BY WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER PETER ONG LAUNCHES IN SUPPORT OF THE DATAI PLEDGE

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 19^th 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 19^th 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.

-ENDS-

ABOUT PETER ONG:

-Wildlife Photographer and Biodiversity Advocate

-Head of Education and Outreach, Roots and Shoots Malaysia

-Council Member, The Jane Goodall Legacy Foundation

His passion for wildlife and the environment led him to a career in wildlife photography and environmental advocacy. His photography and advocacy work has since led him to develop other projects to promote economic empowerment of local communities living with or next to the jungles to encourage them to become better stewards of the environment as well as to spread awareness of the incredible biodiversity and natural wealth of Malaysia and South-East Asia.

ABOUT THE DATAI PLEDGE

In 2020, The Datai Pledge was launched on the premise of protecting biodiversity and supporting the local community of Langkawi, for today and the future. It is founded on the belief that travel has the potential to be transformative; not only for the traveller but also for the host community. It comprises four pillars: Pure For The Future, Fish For The Future, Wildlife For The Future, and Youth For The Future, working to make the resort’s business operations more sustainable, and support marine life, terrestrial wildlife and local youth, respectively. For guests of The Datai Langkawi, The Datai Pledge aims to create educational experiences that inspire and uphold our collective role in responsible living on a wider global level. The Datai Pledge’s vision is to integrate conservation and sustainability into the business operations, company ethos and guest experience of The Datai Langkawi and future properties, to protect and help regenerate the rich biodiversity and enable the local community to thrive. The Datai Pledge is working towards this goal by developing a robust programme with local non-governmental organisations, social enterprises and community partners.

ABOUT THE DATAI LANGKAWI

One of the world’s most stunning resorts, The Datai Langkawi, is situated on the northwest tip of the island of Langkawi in Malaysia. Located in an ancient rainforest rich in wildlife and overlooking the tranquil Datai Bay awarded by National Geographic one of the Top 10 Beaches worldwide, the iconic property enchants with mesmerising nature, visionary architecture, understated elegance, and Malaysian hospitality. All the 121 rooms, villas, and suites at The Datai Langkawi, including the five-bedroom The Datai Estate Villa, offer breath-taking views of the surrounding nature. Elevated among treetops, set in the very heart of the rainforest, and located directly on the coastline, the dining outlets which include the award-winning The Gulai House, The Pavilion, The Dining Room, and The Beach Club, pay homage to the exotic flavours and culinary traditions of the region and beyond. Bespoke facilities include The Nature Centre, an educational facility and home to resident naturalists and marine biologists, and The Spa featuring Ramuan treatments, its own Akar retail range, and VOYA facials. Leisure facilities include three pools, a state-of-the-art fitness centre at The Health Club; an array of wellness activities including Pilates and yoga, retail outlet The Boutique, a reserved space to showcase local arts and talents at The Atelier, as well as one of the most scenic golf courses in the world designed by golf legend Ernie Els, The Els Club Teluk Datai. The resort has founded The Datai Pledge in 2020 – a sustainability and conservation programme that supports Langkawi’s unique fauna, flora, and communities. All proceeds from The Datai Pledge aid this work and contribute to local non-profit organisation. The Datai Langkawi is managed by Datai Hotels and Resorts Sdn Bhd, a company incorporated to manage and operate hospitality properties in Malaysia and beyond.

For further press information and images, please contact:

Dara Soeharto (dara@frogandwolfpr.com), Christina Dendrinou (christina@frogandwolfpr.com), Leanne Barton (leanne@frogandwolfpr.com), Nat Frogley (nat@frogandwolfpr.com) or Flora Gandolfo (flora@frogandwolfpr.com) at Frog & Wolf PR.