By Sofia Nasir
SHAH ALAM, Aug 19 — The Selangor Public Library Corporation (PPAS) last week signed memoranda of understanding (MOUs) with two book managing agencies from China in Guangzhou to foster collaboration in publishing, education and training.
The deals involve the South China Book Festival and Southern Publishing Media Co Ltd.
“These two MOUs were signed to establish a smart partnership through the exchange of ideas, knowledge and expertise. They aim to create mutually beneficial projects that promote cross-cultural understanding, social development and economic growth,” PPAS said in a statement on Facebook.
PPAS was represented by director Mastura Muhammad, South China Book Festival by Weng Xuhui, and Southern Publishing Media by its international department director Chen Bing.
The signing ceremony was held on Friday at the Selangor Pavilion in conjunction with the five-day South China Book Festival in Guangzhou, China.
Mastura, in her speech at the signing ceremony, said Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari played an important role in the collaboration between Selangor and Guangzhou.
“Diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia are long-standing. In fact, a recently published book titled Us and You – The Story of China and Malaysia highlights that this relationship has spanned 50 years.
“This success wasn’t achieved without serious commitment from both sides. It is now up to us not only to continue this legacy, but to elevate it to new heights,” she said.
Mastura concluded her speech by inviting the South China Book Festival to participate as a guest in the Selangor International Book Fair 2024, which will be held from November 27 to December 3.
