National Unity Ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Hasnol Zam Zam Ahmad (centre) visiting the exhibits with National Library director-general Salasiah Abdul Wahab (second from right) and MyTown shopping mall general manager Mohd Azhan Che Mat (right). - Photo: Bernama
KUALA LUMPUR: Shopping malls have been urged to provide reading spaces and increase the number of bookstores within their premises to meet the interests and needs of readers.
National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang cited the Malaysian Reading Profile Study by the National Library of Malaysia, which found that 57.7% of Malaysians prefer reading in bookstores, while another 24.5% enjoy reading in restaurants or cyber cafes.
"For instance, BookXcess at MyTown Shopping Mall has become a popular attraction for the younger generation," he said during his speech at the launch of the Karnival Baca Perdana 2024, organised for the first time by the National Library, at the shopping mall here on Friday (Oct 4).
The text of his speech was read by the ministry's secretary-general Datuk Seri Hasnol Zam Zam Ahmad.
Aaron said that studies have shown an increase in the reading culture among Malaysians, with the average number of books read per person rising from two in 2005 to 15 in 2014, and most recently, 24 last year.
Furthermore, the 2022/2023 Malaysian Reading Profile Study revealed that 69.9% of Malaysians read to enhance their knowledge, a positive indicator of the country's progress toward becoming a highly knowledgeable society, comparable to other developed nations.
Aaron added that the number of International Standard Book Numbers (ISBN) requested by book publishers for physical books increased by 50% last year, with 9,332 applications, compared to the previous year.
"This data shows that the publishing industry, particularly for physical books, remains relevant and in high demand among readers, despite the dominance of electronic media in our daily lives," he said.
In this regard, he mentioned that the Education Ministry is currently reviewing the existing National Book Policy (DBN), with plans to launch an improved policy next year, as the current policy was first introduced on Nov 27, 1985.
He also encouraged publishing companies to produce more reading materials, as research indicates that 72% of Malaysians are keen to purchase reading materials, with an average budget of up to RM500 annually.
Additionally, Aaron said the National Unity Ministry would review proposals from the 2022/2023 Reading Profile Study to establish a National Reading Index (IMK) to monitor the overall reading levels of Malaysians from 2025 to 2030.
The minister announced several initiatives to be implemented starting next year, including Kem Citra Baca, a programme featuring social activities, the introduction of a new National Reading Icon, the appointment of the first National Reading Figure, and the Kalam Karyawan programme. – Bernama
