Originally published in Star Two (The Star) – 21 March 2007 | By Rubin Khoo
In 2007, five individuals from diverse backgrounds were united by a common bond: their role as guardians of Malaysia’s rich heritage. Selected from a nationwide search by DiGi Telecommunications, these "Amazing Malaysians" were recognized for their extraordinary passion and dedication to preserving the nation’s natural, social, and cultural legacies.
THE 2007 AMAZING MALAYSIANS
The selection committee, focusing on sustainability and community impact, identified five key practitioners to lead heritage projects for the younger generation:
- Irshad Mobarak: The Jungle-Wallah of Langkawi (Island Ecosystem Conservation)
- Chen Voon Fee: The Treasure Keeper of Kuala Lumpur (Architectural Conservation)
- Pak Saad Harun: The Rhythm Master of Negeri Sembilan (Randai Theatre Tradition)
- Judeth John Baptist: The Culture Seeker of Sabah (Indigenous Arts & Crafts)
- Joan Marbeck: The Kristang Poet of Malacca (Portuguese-Eurasian Heritage)
IRSHAD MOBARAK: FROM CORPORATE BANKING TO ISLAND CONSERVATION
Irshad Mobarak’s story is one of profound transformation. After five years in the banking sector, he realized the corporate world was not his calling. A visit to Langkawi in the early 1990s captivated him, leading to a lifelong commitment to studying and preserving island ecosystems.
As a resident naturalist, Irshad identified a critical crisis: the loss of nearly half of Langkawi’s wildlife and the fragmentation of their remaining habitats. He became a vocal advocate for wildlife corridors—biological bridges designed to prevent inbreeding and genetic weakening of species. Through his "Amazing Malaysians" project, Irshad focused on training a "troop of young forest rangers," instilling a sense of environmental responsibility in the island's youth.
A LEGACY OF CUSTODIANSHIP
As noted by then-DiGi CEO Morten Lundal, "With knowledge of the past, we strengthen the present and future." This philosophy remains at the heart of JungleWalla. The recognition of Bang Irshad as a 'Dedicated Custodian' almost two decades ago served as the foundation for our current conservation and education programs.
EXPERIENCE THE LEGACY
Join the mission of Langkawi’s original custodian. Our expeditions are more than just tours; they are an extension of the conservation work recognized by the Amazing Malaysians awards. Explore the Machinchang and Kilim geoforest parks with the team that started the movement. Visit our Langkawi Nature Tours page to learn more.