KUCHING: Pustaka Negeri Sarawak’s Chief Executive Officer, Japri Bujang Masli, stated that broad-based knowledge is now an essential requirement that would enable Sarawakians to add value in an economy driven by creativity and innovation.
He pointed out that cultivating a strong reading habit must become a shared responsibility if Sarawak is to realise its goal of achieving high-income status by 2030.
“We have only five years left before 2030. To reach high-income status, everyone needs to gain knowledge beyond formal education.
A vibrant reading culture is the key foundation for enhancing the region’s economic value,” he said during the Sarawak Bookfair 2025 press conference at Pustaka Negeri Sarawak here today.
Japri said that access to knowledge must be extended to every layer of society so that more people can compete effectively in the creative economy.
“Entrepreneurs, in particular, must adopt innovative and creative strategies to increase the value of their products and services, which will, in turn, boost their income,” he added.
The Sarawak Bookfair 2025 will showcase 32 exhibitors, with highlights including Big Bad Wolf, which is set to offer over 3,000 English-language titles.
The event will also coincide with the ‘Karnival Baca Perdana’ event, organised in collaboration with the National Library of Malaysia, and will be officiated by Deputy Minister of National Unity, Senator Saraswathy Kandasami.
To mark the state support for strengthening a culture of knowledge, Sarawak Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, is scheduled to officially launch the bookfair on September 30.
In conjunction with Pustaka Negeri’s 25th anniversary, Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg will also be honoured as Sarawak’s Reading Icon.
The public is warmly invited to attend the nine-day fair and take advantage of special offers on a wide selection of reading materials.
