KUCHING – A children’s storybook that champions creativity and social innovation has officially arrived in Sarawak. On 13 April 2026, the Malay edition of Amber the Maker was launched at Pustaka Negeri Sarawak, marking a significant step in making the book’s message accessible to local youth.
The project originates from the Research Chair in Maker Culture at Concordia University, led by Professor Dr Ann-Louise Davidson.
It is designed to empower children by showing how technology and imagination can be harnessed to address real-world challenges.
Supported by the Canadian Commission for UNESCO, the book has already been translated into ten languages, including Chinese, Spanish, Portuguese and Arabic, and is distributed globally through the UNESCO schools network.
The story centres on Amber, an eight-year-old amputee who struggles with bullying on her swimming team due to her speed in relay races.
As she contemplates quitting, she encounters Gentling, an imaginary dragon who introduces her to maker culture.
Through this journey, Amber learns to design and 3D-print a customised prosthetic swimming attachment, symbolising resilience and innovation.
The Malay translation was undertaken by Professor Fitri Suraya Mohamad of Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS). She explained that the project was initiated during the COVID-19 lockdown and resonates strongly with young readers.
“The story of Amber is an inspirational tale which resonates with many young people as they learn to find their personal confidence, character and courage,” she said. Fitri added that the translation aligns with UNIMAS 2030’s vision of nurturing innovative and socially responsive talent.
Copies of the Malay edition were formally received by Tuan Hj Japri Bujang Masli, CEO of Pustaka Negeri Sarawak.
He expressed hope that more books of this nature will be published, offering children diverse perspectives and encouraging them to explore creativity as a tool for problem-solving.
The book was jointly authored by Professor Dr Ann-Louise Davidson and Elizabeth Lakoff, with illustrations by Alina Gutierrez.
Its narrative is based on research findings from workshops involving participants of different age groups, focusing on problem-solving and social innovation.
By bringing Amber the Maker to Sarawak, the initiative highlights the importance of inclusivity and creativity in education.
It also reflects the region’s growing commitment to equipping children with the skills and confidence to face challenges while fostering a culture of innovation that extends beyond the classroom.
