| Izah Azahari |
LOCAL comic book artist Dr Malai Yunus bin Malai Yussof (better known as Noh) yesterday released his sixth comic book Apa Ada Noh? during an official book launch at The Coffee Bean Brunei, The Centrepoint Hotel branch in Gadong.
The event was organised by Creative Space Art Gallery and Studio.
The launch began with a press conference, followed by a book signing and a live demonstration of the work by Dr Malai Yunus.
Speaking to the Bulletin, Dr Malai Yunus noted that the book is very Bruneian and popularises some of his works from the 1990s as well as new ones (due to high demand from his followers).
“My sincere advice to those wishing to pursue the same path is to not think of the money first, but to establish yourself and most importantly, have fun doing it because either way, you’ll never lose,” Dr Malai Yunus said.
Dr Malai Yunus has been a cartoonist since 1990, and is known for his stories based on his experience in Kampong Ayer.
His comics today also consist stories on current local traditions and culture, and critiquing social behaviours in a humourous manner.
Written in a Brunei dialect with a slight mixture of the Malay and English languages, Apa Ada Noh? can be enjoyed by the young and the old. Ultimately, the production of the book is to show Brunei’s creative and innovative side in incorporating products with a local identity, while still being accepted internationally.
The book took four months to complete, he said, adding that he has been quite productive this year. Another book will be launched towards the end of the year, which will be in English language.
For the book launch, Dr Malai Yunos worked closely with Creative Space Art Gallery and Studio, who are supporters in promoting local art to the public.
From this book and the launch, they hope to contribute to sustaining the Bruneian identity and contribute to contemporary culture.
Tokens of appreciation were also presented to Creative Space Art Gallery and Studio for organising the event, The Coffee Bean Brunei for being the collaborative partner and supporter, Diki Kurniawan for the layout and graphics of Apa Ada Noh? and Tillah Nasrum for the book cover artwork.
Apa Ada Noh? will also be available in bookstores nationwide and online at Bruvera.