KUALA LUMPUR, June 1 — The public interest in physical books remains strong, as demonstrated by the encouraging response to the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair (KLIBF) 2026 throughout its run.
The positive turnout has strengthened confidence that the publishing industry remains relevant despite growing competition from digital platforms and the increasingly widespread use of electronic devices.
Blink Book Sdn Bhd managing director Syaizul Amal Zulkaffly, 51, said the response during this year’s book fair has been highly encouraging, with visitors travelling from various states during the long holiday period.
Parents were among the main groups attending the event, reflecting their commitment to fostering a reading culture among children.
“We provide a special area for parents to sit while their children choose books that interest them. I enjoy seeing parents give their children the freedom to select their own reading materials.
“Although the book industry faces challenges from the growing use of digital devices, I still see many people who value the experience of reading physical books,” he said.
Syaizul added that competition within the publishing industry has also become a catalyst for producing higher-quality and more innovative products.
“Last year, we published 126 book titles for this fair, while this year the number has increased to 200 titles. We also plan to publish even more books in the future,” he said.
Meanwhile, IMAN’s product and marketing head Nurul Najwa Ahmad Ramzan, 30, said visitor numbers this year appeared higher than those recorded last year.
Novels and other fiction continue to attract readers, including newly released titles from the company.
“Visitors consist of families and members of Gen Z. We are seeing increasing interest in reading, as well as a desire for greater variety in reading materials.
“Although price competition remains the main challenge, we are confident that demand for physical books remains strong,” she said.
Najwa noted that the company plans to publish around 30 books this year and intends to increase that number next year.
For Mangosteen Books chief executive officer Hanafi Munshi, 36, the rising sales and visitor numbers at the company’s booth reflect the positive development of the local publishing industry.
Historical fiction novels have been among the most popular genres throughout the book fair.
“The largest group visiting our booth consists of women aged between 18 and 25. Interestingly, they are not only looking for discounts but are more concerned with the quality of a book’s content.
“I believe reading rates among young people are increasing, and this is a positive sign for the publishing industry,” he said.
As such, Hanafi hopes that more works catering to readers from different backgrounds and interests will be published in the future.
Echoing his views was KKRI Sdn Bhd's registered counsellor Nurul Fateqa Waie Mahfudin, who said that books on parenting, communication, and research have received encouraging support from visitors.
Most buyers are parents seeking to expand their knowledge of child development and education.
“The main challenge at present is the increasing demand for e-books and online reading platforms. Nevertheless, I believe interest in reading among young people remains healthy and continues to grow,” she said.
KLIBF 2026, held at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur, continues to serve as an important platform for publishers to promote new works and encourage a culture of reading among the public.
Running from May 29 to June 7, the annual event features a wide range of activities, including book launches, meet-the-author sessions, and promotional sales aimed at fostering a stronger reading culture within society.
