KUCHING: The Sarawak Book Fair 2025 and National Reading Carnival at The Hills here have once again proven to be a crowd-puller, attracting visitors across generations with their wide array of titles and engaging activities.
The event not only celebrates books but also reflects the evolving landscape of reading in an age where digital platforms increasingly shape how people consume content.
For some visitors, the tactile experience of flipping through a physical book remains unmatched, symbolising nostalgia and authenticity.
For others, the practicality of e-books, with instant access and easy storage, fits better into a modern, fast-paced lifestyle.
Beyond the debate between print and digital, the fair has been praised for fostering a culture of reading, inspiring the younger generation to explore literature and providing a rare opportunity for local authors to showcase their works.
Many attendees also see it as a platform to bring the community closer together through shared appreciation of stories, knowledge and creativity.
Sarawak Tribune spoke to several visitors who shared their personal reading preferences and hopes for the fair’s future.
MORSHID MARJO, 58, VISITOR
“I think it’s a good space to promote reading culture because there are both international and local books available.
The younger generation is coming out to buy books, which is encouraging, while senior citizens like me still enjoy collecting them. Personally, I prefer physical books over e-books – maybe it’s because of my generation.
My hope is that book fairs like this are organised more often, maybe twice a year. I attended a similar event in The Boulevard last year, and I think these programmes help people get closer to books and build a stronger reading habit.”
NUR ERLIANA PUTRI ABDULLAH, 16, STUDENT
“I came here with my school just to walk around and look for books. I bought a few, not too many, but I think this is a good example for the younger generation.
Personally, I prefer e-books because you can find what you want online without having to go to the store.
Physical books are nice, but they require more effort to buy. My hope is that this book fair will continue next year so more people can enjoy it.”
ROSYLIA MOBIN, 24, VISITOR
“I came with a friend and although I am not really a book lover, I felt excited seeing the wide variety of titles here. Some of the physical books on display are new to me, and that makes me want to start reading.
The fair also brings together people from different places with many interesting activities, so I believe it should be held regularly.”
HANI MARDHIAH MOHAMMAD ZULKARNAEN, 14, STUDENT
“The message we want to share through the choral speaking is that books have their own kind of magic. Even through words alone, they can bring entirely new experiences.
I have already read more than 100 books this year and plan to buy another five or six physical titles from the Teen section for under RM100 because they are affordable.
I hope more people, especially my peers, will appreciate and enjoy reading physical books the way I do.”
