I was a Nikon's appointed official photographer in
Malaysia for a couple of years. Naturally, Nikon camera system forms
the basic equipment list for most of my assignments. Cameras used are principally
Nikon FM, FE2, F801 (8008) and F90X.
Lenses comprising from Nikkor 16mm, 20mm, 35-70mm, 80-200mm, 135mm and Tamron
200-400mm. Current personal favourite is 20mm (the slightly distorted
perspective lens which adds a lot of impact) and 80-200mm F2.8. The filter I used
most frequently is a PL. Whenever I have to travel by flight, I usually carry at
least two camera bodies and lots of films inside a transparent container for manual
security-check at the airport custom check point. It also prevents my films from
getting fogged by going through the scanners.
I usually read a lot about the places before my visit.
It is definitely an added advantage to be accompanied by a local and I do pay a lot
of attentions to observe the dos and don't on the cultures.
I am in the midst of preparing another new book. Which
is essentially my second publication after my "Rustic Malaysia"
in 1994. Focusing more on the East Malaysia, Sarawak, in particular, where my wife
came from. Local cultural interest and landscape in the untouched rural scenes are
my prime subject of interest. The time is changing, and along with the process of
modernisation, some of the fading custom and culture practices will be best recorded
with the medium of photography.
Images presented in this site may not portray accurately
of the modern aspect & society of Malaysia, instead, much of the works here are
captured at the country side and the traditional way of life in the rural areas that
is fast fading in the ever changing world.
Arthur Teng, 1996
