The late Malaysian poet and writer Peng Shih Lin’s works have been described as a bridge between the ancient Tang and Song dynasties and modern times. Dr. Lim Chee Men, a lecturer at the Institute of Chinese Studies at Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) Kampar, highlighted how Peng’s poetry and calligraphy capture the essence of modern individuals living in a world steeped in ancient traditions.
Peng, who was born in Hunan, China in 1923 and later moved to Ipoh, Perak, in 1950, was a multifaceted individual. She was not only a poet and writer but also an educationist, calligrapher, and artist. Her contributions to Chinese literature were significant, as she taught at SMJK Perempuan Perak and eventually became the headmistress of the school from 1954 to 1978. Known by her pen name Cui Yuan, Peng was also an advisor to the Malaysian Calligraphy Association.
Throughout her career, Peng produced various literary works, including classical poetry collections like „Selected Poems of Ju Cui Yuan Shi“ and essay compilations such as „Ye Chuang Xian Hua“ and „Shu Deng Xu Yu.“ Her talent in poetry earned her international recognition, with the Taiwan Chinese Culture and Art Association awarding her the Overseas Culture and Art Award in 1992. Additionally, her works were exhibited at Wisma Kebudayaan Soka Gakkai Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur in 2005.
To preserve Peng’s artistic and literary legacy, her children compiled a book titled „A Collection of Peng Shih Lin’s Artwork.“ This bilingual compilation, in Mandarin and English, was edited and written by the late Dr. Lee Kean Yau, a former lecturer of Chinese Literature at New Era College & University. The book features photographs and around 100 pieces of Peng’s work, including calligraphy, poems, paintings, and Chinese seals.
Pantai Remis assemblyman Wong May Ing commended the uniqueness of Peng’s writing style, noting its old-school charm. She emphasized how calligraphy was an integral part of many Chinese educators‘ lives in Malaysia, rather than just a subject taught in school. Wong also mentioned that the book’s editor and writer, Dr. Lee, was her former lecturer in Chinese Literature, adding a personal connection to the project.
Peng’s daughter-in-law, Chung Yook Chee, shared that the bilingual book was published in 2017 but was only recently launched. The decision to publish the book in Singapore was made to ensure the best quality for Peng’s treasured items. Chung expressed the family’s desire to showcase Peng’s artwork instead of letting it remain unseen, underscoring the importance of preserving her legacy.
Overall, Peng Shih Lin’s contributions to Malaysian literature and art are significant, and the publication of „A Collection of Peng Shih Lin’s Artwork“ serves as a testament to her enduring influence and talent. The book not only honors Peng’s memory but also allows future generations to appreciate and learn from her remarkable body of work.