By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, June 19: The brief but extensive 19th-century travels of Hungarian naturalist János Xántus across Sarawak are being recognised as part of a wider scientific record on Borneo’s biodiversity and early exploration history.
Sarawak Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said Xántus’ work offers valuable insight into Sarawak at a time when scientific exploration of the region was still in its early stages and largely documented by a small group of European naturalists.
“Today, I was exposed to this new information about a Hungarian explorer and naturalist who had been in Sarawak conducting research,” he told reporters after officiating the Programme Commemorating the 200th Anniversary of János Xántus’ Birth (1825–1894) at the Sarawak State Library here today.
Abdul Karim said Xántus spent approximately four months travelling across Sarawak despite the absence of modern infrastructure and communication systems during that period.
According to him, the naturalist moved across several locations including Kuching, Matang, Gedong and Sri Aman, documenting his observations of the landscape, biodiversity and local environment.
“In just four months, he travelled to several places. At that time, there were no roads and communication was very limited. It must have been very, very difficult, but he was able to produce writings which have now been compiled into a book,” he said.
He said the publication, produced in conjunction with the commemoration of Xántus’ 200th birth anniversary, helps shed light on how 19th-century European explorers viewed and recorded Borneo.
Abdul Karim noted that historical accounts of early scientific exploration in Sarawak are often associated with figures such as Alfred Russel Wallace and Odoardo Beccari, as well as researchers from the Brooke era.
However, he said Xántus’ contributions show that other European naturalists, including those from Hungary, also played a role in documenting the region.
“We usually remember explorers such as Alfred Wallace and Beccari, apart from the Brooke family. But today we also learned that there were scientists and explorers from other parts of Europe, including Hungary,” he said.
Earlier in his speech, Abdul Karim officiated the launch of the book “Xántus and/és Borneo: A Hungarian Naturalist in 19th-Century Sarawak”, which compiles writings and research on Xántus’ travels, findings and legacy in Borneo.
The programme also featured a book talk by authors Tamás Kiss and Christopher Higgs, who shared insights into Xántus’ journey and scientific contributions during his time in Sarawak.
In addition, an animated film on the life and legacy of János Xántus—produced through collaboration between Sunway University and Partium University—was showcased as part of efforts to introduce his historical contributions to younger audiences through creative and educational mediums.
A memorial wooden carved post and commemorative plaque honouring Xántus were also installed at the Sarawak State Library garden as a symbolic tribute to his contributions to Sarawak’s scientific and natural heritage.
Abdul Karim said such initiatives are important in strengthening awareness of historical knowledge, as well as encouraging international collaboration in preserving scientific and cultural heritage.
He expressed hope that continued cooperation between the Embassy of Hungary in Malaysia, Sunway University and the Sarawak State Library would further open opportunities for research into lesser-known historical figures who contributed to Borneo’s documentation.
“These efforts help us better understand our history while strengthening ties between Sarawak and Hungary,” he added.
The programme was jointly organised by the Sarawak State Library in collaboration with the Embassy of Hungary in Malaysia to commemorate Xántus’ 200th birth anniversary and highlight his contributions to the early scientific recording of Borneo.
Also present at the event were Ambassador of Hungary to Malaysia Dr Sándor Sipos; Sarawak State Library Board of Management Deputy Chairman Datu Hajah Rashidah Bolhassan; board members Dato Ir. Lo Khere Chiang and Datu William Patrick Nyigor; and Chief Executive Officer Japri Bujang Masli. — DayakDaily
