KUCHING: Reading is more than a personal pursuit; it is a bridge of unity and inclusivity, capable of connecting Malaysians across backgrounds, generations and abilities.
Deputy National Unity Minister Senator Saraswathy Kandasami said that reading provides not only knowledge but also mutual understanding and respect, both of which are essential in strengthening the bonds of a diverse society like Malaysia.
“This carnival is not merely a book fair. It is a meeting ground for people of all ages and backgrounds, united by their love for learning and their desire for a better future,” she said at the officiating of the Karnival Baca Perdana (National Reading Carnival) and Sarawak Book Fair 2025 at The Hills, Kuching, on Tuesday (Sept 30).
She stressed that in a multicultural society, reading plays a vital role in strengthening national cohesion by helping Malaysians understand one another’s histories, struggles and aspirations.
“Books are not just sources of knowledge but tools of unity.”
The event also highlighted inclusivity, with efforts to involve youth, rural communities and persons with disabilities (PWD).
According to Saraswathy, access to books should not be viewed as a privilege for the few but rather as a right for all.
“Programmes such as this make reading more accessible to groups who are often underserved.
“By fostering a culture of reading that is both unifying and inclusive, we lay the foundation for a society that values knowledge and respects diversity.”
Furthermore, she emphasised that initiatives such as the Sarawak Book Fair play a pivotal role in creating platforms where people can gather, share perspectives and cultivate empathy.
“This inclusivity is crucial for nurturing future generations who are both informed and compassionate.”
The carnival serves as a positive reflection of Malaysia’s Madani, which upholds knowledge and togetherness as the core principles of national progress.
By bringing communities together through books, it reinforces the idea that a reading nation is not only wiser but also stronger and more united.
