KUCHING: Increasing reading habits among Generation Z (Gen Z) and Millennials requires a creative approach that is in line with their lifestyle, said Sarawak Bumiputera Teachers Union (KGBS) president Zulkiflee Sebli.
In an effort to cultivate a stronger reading habit among Generation Z and Millennials, he suggested
developing attractive reading applications or portals, such as e-books, audiobooks, and short articles, that are user-friendly.
“Additionally, promote reading through platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube by sharing book summaries in engaging formats such as short videos and infographics,” he said told the Sarawak Tribune when contacted.
He acknowledged that digital entertainment such as social media, video games, and streaming platforms like YouTube, Netflix, and TikTok tends to be more attractive due to its visual and interactive nature.
“Digital content often provides instant gratification, whereas reading requires more effort and focus.
“This is why reading initiatives must adapt to the digital era by incorporating interactive and visually engaging elements suited for younger generations,” he said.
He pointed out that platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts can be leveraged to promote reading through engaging short-form content.
“Trends like “BookTok” have already proven successful in attracting young audiences to books through viral recommendations and discussions,” he added.
Zulkifli also stressed the role of parents in fostering reading habits among children.
“Instilling a love of reading among children requires continuous effort and a creative approach.
“Children are more likely to imitate their parents. If they see you reading regularly, they will also be interested in reading.
“Make sure that the house has plenty of reading materials such as storybooks, magazines, and comics that are suitable as reading materials,” he said.
He added that the Malaysian and Sarawak governments have implemented various initiatives to promote a reading culture among Gen Z and Millennials.
“Among these efforts are self-development programmes such as the Perdana Rakan Muda (ARP) Youth Awards, which involve youth participation in community activities and life skills.
“This programme emphasises the inclusive involvement of all parties, including parents, communities, youth, as well as the government and private sectors, to encourage youth participation in positive activities,” he added.
He also said that in Sarawak, projects funded by the Sarawak Government under the 10th and 11th Malaysia Plans aim to promote a reading culture and traditional knowledge.
“In addition, there are initiatives such as the design of a visual identity targeted at Gen Z to learn and deepen the cosmological beliefs of the Dayak community in Sarawak, which can interest young people in local culture and knowledge,” he said.
