Cosmic Connections: Exploring Langkawi Through Art and Science

ASM, through the ASM™️ ArtScience Initiative, in collaboration with Langkawi Development Authority, on 3 December 2023, launched a coffee table book titled “Cosmic Connections: Langkawi”. The launch was graced by the Yang Teramat Mulia Dato’ Seri DiRaja Tan Sri Tunku Puteri Intan Safinaz binti Almarhum Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah, Tunku Temenggong Kedah.

ASM President, Academician Datuk Dr Tengku Mohd Azzman Shariffadeen FASc, emphasised that by fostering an environment that encourages the seamless integration of art, science, and cosmic exploration, we cannot only enhance the tourism experience but also contribute to our nation’s economic and cultural prosperity.

The Cosmic Connections: Langkawi book was launched at Rimba Sky, Ambong Ambong Rainforest Retreat. Guests were treated to a special cosmos-themed dinner, which featured captivating performances and poetry readings from artists such as Datuk Ramli Ibrahim and Tan Sri Johan Jaafar.

The book contains twenty-four poems by Professor Emeritus Dr Muhammad Haji Salleh and seven works of art by Associate Professor Dr Jalaini Abu Hassan, interwoven with the astronomical narrative provided by Academician Professor Emerita Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr Mazlan Othman FASc, and featuring sky images from Agensi Angkasa Malaysia – MYSA. The book explains the physical connection between life on Earth and the cosmos, and Langkawi Island’s past connection to celestial bodies.