KUCHING: Malaysia’s book industry holds vast potential particularly in the micro, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) sector and must receive comprehensive support to ensure continued growth and job creation.
Deputy Minister of National Unity, Senator Saraswathy Kandasami, said that the book industry under SMEs had contributed 0.38 per cent to the national gross income, 37.4 per cent to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and employed 47.8 per cent of the workforce in 2021.
“Although the contribution appears small, the industry has significant potential.
“It must be continuously supported and strengthened by the government, publishers, authors and booksellers so that it can stand on par with developed nations,” she said at the Karnival Baca Perdana and Sarawak Book Fair 2025, officiated by Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, at The Hills Shopping Mall, Kuching today (Sept 30).
She said that among the key proposals was government intervention through substantial funding and investment for holistic industry development, encompassing the creative, publishing and marketing phases.
She also emphasised the importance of continuing book voucher schemes for students, which have been proven to increase local book sales and publications.
“With integrated initiatives between government agencies, publishers and authors, Malaysia’s book industry can grow into a catalyst for both intellectual advancement and economic development,” she said.
Saraswathy added that the twin hosting of the Karnival Baca Perdana with the Sarawak Book Fair had not only attracted large crowds but also stimulated book sales, energising the publishing ecosystem in the state.
“With close cooperation between ministries, agencies, publishers and communities, this programme is expected to serve as a key driver in cultivating a reading culture while accelerating intellectual and economic progress,” she said.
She stressed that such efforts align with the Malaysia MADANI vision, which places knowledge and unity at the core of the nation’s advancement.
“By fostering critical readers, the nation strengthens its capacity for innovation and problem-solving,” she stressed.
