Malaysian artist plans world's longest painting

Hasbi Chee, dubbed Malaysia's Rolf Harris after the popular Australian artist who likes to sing while painting, said he and his son, Sherill Anuar, hope to complete the painting by December 2002.

Hasbi - whose works adorn the walls of Malaysian museums, government offices, hotels and private homes and who also acts and writes songs - said his initial target was a 1.2-kilometre-long painting, which would be extended if there were a longer record worldwide. The painting is to be done on 40-metre-long rolls of linen cloth, which are later to be sewn together to depict one long scene.

Hasbi, who is working on the project at his home in the Langkawi island resort, has already finished one roll, which shows scenes of Malaysia's flora and fauna, history and native tribes. The Sun daily said a Japanese art lover donated 50,000 ringgit (13,158 dollars) for Hasbi's project, while Langkawi and Malaysian tourism authorities have promised another 500,000 ringgit.

The 51-year-old Hasbi said he hopes the painting will draw more tourists to Langkawi and Malaysia.

(dpa)