Painted by the talented Borneo artist Narong Daun, “Ilham Forest Jewels, Makan Sama, Main Sama” is a mesmerising portrayal of the rich biodiversity found within the dense forests of Borneo, intricately intertwined with the region’s vibrant cultural tapestry.
The painting was commissioned by our Managing Director and Founder Mr. Albert Chin Kion Teo, who got in touch with Narong Daun to create an artwork that combined a few of Borneo’s most iconic flora and fauna.
“Makan Sama, Main Sama” a local saying which literally means “eat together and play together” in English, is a reminder of the joy found in sharing meals and moments of joy together. It beautifully depicts the harmony and peace that the multi-indigenous and multi-racial people of Borneo get to experience in their daily life.
With meticulous attention to detail and a profound appreciation for the natural world and indigenous traditions, Daun’s masterpiece invites viewers on a journey through the lush greenery and vibrant life that thrives in Borneo’s tropical paradise.
At the forefront of the painting, Daun’s skilled brushstrokes bring to life the endearing presence of a Bornean Ground Cuckoo, foraging for its meal. Against the backdrop of verdant foliage, is the Rafflesia keithii, Rothschild Orchid and Nepenthes Rajah pitcher plant, floras that are endemic to Borneo.
Meanwhile, the majestic Rhinoceros Hornbill savours a fruit in its beak, portraying the abundance shared by all of the inhabitants of the rainforest- Its vibrant cask a testament to the region’s avian diversity.
As the eye explores further, there peeking shyly from the underbrush are the iconic primates of Borneo, the Orang Utan and Proboscis Monkey, which embody the spirit of camaraderie, adding a whimsical charm to the composition. Through Daun’s skillful rendering, each element of the painting serves as a testament to the intricate interplay of life within the forest ecosystem.
With “Ilham Forest Jewels, Makan Sama, Main Sama,” Narong Daun offer viewers to immerse themselves in the wonders of nature and rediscover the beauty of unity and companionship. Through her masterful depiction of Borneo’s flora and fauna, Daun inspires a deep appreciation not only for the natural world but also for Borneo’s multi-racial communities that live in harmony, reminding us of the importance of preserving and cherishing our natural world as well as our bonds.
About the Artist
Self-taught artist Narong Daun takes inspiration from Borneo’s spectacular rainforest for its conservation. Her passion for art and nature are visible in her work where she has developed her own technique and has created beautiful and intricate works. She has a beautiful technique when it comes to blending her colours and has shared that wants to be seen as positive and bright. When viewing her art, you will see a wide range of textures, lines, shapes, and colours. She also tends to create mixed media pieces. Her subjects range from vivid heliconias, hornbills, and orchids blended with Borneo’s artefacts such as the indigenous motifs of the Orang Ulu. An indigenous artist from the Bidayuh heartland of Sarawak, she is also renowned for her earlier works of vivid batik silk paintings. Born in 1970, she is the seventh of nine siblings, and her parents were farmers. Her unique style has made her one of Sarawak’s most prolific artists. Her solo and joint exhibitions are well attended, and her works have been exhibited in numerous galleries and homes in Malaysia, Thailand, India, Australia and Hawaii amongst many others.