Xántus: A Hungarian in Borneo and Hungarians Exploring in the Orient
Special event in celebration of János Xántus, the renowned Hungarian naturalist and ethnographer.
The Embassy of Hungary in Kuala Lumpur, the Centre for English Language Studies at Sunway University, and Sunway University Press cordially invite you to a special event in celebration of János Xántus, the renowned Hungarian naturalist and ethnographer.
Date: 8th November 2024
Time: 18:00 – 20:00
Venue: The Gallery, Level 1, Sunway University
János Xántus, whose 200th anniversary of birth will be commemorated in 2025, was a prolific collector. His work has left an indelible mark on science and ethnography. Numerous plants and animals bear his name, including four plant species, two birds, three fish, a gecko, and a crab, along with the family Xántusiidae and the genus Xántusia of lizards. His expeditions, particularly his journey to Sarawak in 1870, laid the foundations for the Department of Ethnography of the Hungarian National Museum, and later the Ethnography Museum in Budapest.
During this event, we will introduce a new volume to be published by Sunway University Press in 2025, titled "Xántus and/és Borneo: A Hungarian Naturalist in 19th Century Sarawak". The book details his extraordinary expedition to Sarawak, offering first English translations of his writings on Borneo, and highlights his significant contributions to both Hungarian and global scientific and cultural heritage. Two of the book's editors, A/P Dr Tamas Kiss (Sunway University) and Mr Christopher Higgs, will share their insights into Xántus' work in Sarawak. In addition, courtesy of the Embassy of Hungary, a roll-up exhibition on “Hungarian Exploring in the Orient” will be displayed, offering a fascinating glimpse into Hungary's scientific exploration history.
Please register using the QR code.
