WHEN we think of reading, many of us still imagine someone quietly absorbed in a novel or textbook, turning pages in silence and far removed from the noise of the modern world.
However, in today’s world, reading comes in many different forms. It could be a news article on your phone during breakfast, a PDF report you read at work, a blog post that sparks reflection, or a late-night scroll through e-books and essays. Though the formats may vary, each one serves a purpose – and each one matters.
This simple truth was reinforced during the Jom Baca Bersama campaign, held in conjunction with World Book Day recently. Since the initiative began, over 51 million Malaysians have reportedly taken part. In Sarawak alone, 376,969 participants were recorded last year. This is a clear indication that our hunger for knowledge remains strong.
At the launch of the state-level Jom Baca Bersama 2025 programme in Kuching, Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development, Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee, highlighted that reading is essential for acquiring and retaining knowledge.
Dr Annuar, who has pursued careers in medicine, law and politics, shared how reading played a vital role in shaping the paths. His words were a timely reminder that reading is not a luxury for the academic elite. It is necessary for anyone who wants to learn, grow and make sense of the world around them.
Still, we must recognise that reading is not a one-size-fits-all experience.
Some people read selectively, scanning documents for keywords or specific facts. Others practise deep reading, immersing themselves in books that challenge their thinking and open new intellectual doors. Many read for pleasure, getting lost in stories, poetry, memoirs, or comic strips.
Each approach has its value. Selective reading sharpens our focus and efficiency. Deep reading broadens our perspectives and understanding. Reading for pleasure soothes the soul and keeps our curiosity alive.
We should not rank these forms or treat one as superior. What truly matters is that we read consistently, meaningfully, and in ways that enrich the mind.
Pustaka Negeri Sarawak CEO, Japri Bujang Masli, expressed this sentiment well when he said, “The reading culture is a lifelong practice that shapes critical and innovative thinking. Through books, we broaden our minds, strengthen our identity, and build a more knowledgeable society.”
At the same event, Japri referenced ‘What’s in a Day?’, the latest book by Datuk Nazir Razak, chairman and founding partner of Ikhlas Capital, an ASEAN private equity firm. The firm explores values such as integrity, courage and lifelong learning. It is a perfect example of how books do more than inform – they inspire.
That is the true essence of reading. It is not just about consuming words. It is about engaging with ideas that challenge us, help us build empathy, and deepen our understanding of the world.
Unfortunately, we often associate reading habits with school, treating it as expected only of children. But if we stop reading once our formal education ends, we do ourselves a great disservice. Adults need reading just as much as – if not more than – children. It helps keep us mentally sharp, emotionally grounded, and socially informed. Whether it is a guide on parenting, a book on entrepreneurship, or a memoir full of life lessons, every book we read becomes part of our intellectual and emotional toolkit.
Still, we must acknowledge a persistent challenge: not everyone in Sarawak has equal access to reading materials. That is why it is crucial to strengthen public libraries and promote community-based reading initiatives, especially in rural areas. The love for reading must not be limited to urban centres or classrooms. It should reach every corner of our society.
We must also adapt to a changing world. Today, reading goes beyond printed pages. The digital landscape offers countless alternatives – e-books, audiobooks with transcripts, long-form journalism, and even reflective content on social media platforms.
The medium does not matter as much as the mindset. What matters is our willingness to pause, reflect, and engage deeply.
Even in a fast-paced digital world, deep and meaningful reading is still possible – and powerful. In an age of short attention spans and constant distractions, reading becomes a quiet form of resistance. It is a way to reclaim time, sharpen our thinking, and nurture our inner lives.
Whether you are flipping through pages for pleasure, skimming headlines for news, diving deep into literature, or consulting a manual to solve a problem, you are reading. And all of it matters.
Let us celebrate this truth. Let us embrace every form of reading – not only during national campaigns but every single day. Read what inspires you. Read what challenges you. Read for the sake of learning, healing, and growing.
With every sentence we read, we build something meaningful: a more informed self, a more thoughtful society, and a more connected world.
Through every interaction with language, we refine our minds, strengthen our understanding, and progress further along the path of continuous learning.
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of Sarawak Tribune. The writer can be reached at drnagrace@gmail.com.
‘Reading is important, because if you can read, you can learn anything about everything and everything about anything.’
– Tomie dePaola (1934-2020) was an acclaimed American author and illustrator of children’s books.
He was known for creating over 270 works, including picture books and chapter books, many of which he both wrote and illustrated. DePaola’s works often drew inspiration from his own life, Italian heritage, and folk tales.
Some of his most famous works include “Strega Nona”, “Oliver Button Is a Sissy”, and the “26 Fairmount Avenue” series, which is based on his own childhood experiences. Tomie dePaola’s contributions to children’s literature have earned him numerous awards and recognitions throughout his career.
