Malaysia to be a Reading Nation Begins in Childhood | KiddyNews

Shared reading activities and RM10 million investment signal stronger focus on literacy from the earliest years

Malaysia could become a nation where reading is deeply embedded in everyday life within the next two decades, according to Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek.

Central to that vision is a stronger emphasis on reading from the preschool years, with new initiatives designed to nurture literacy habits among young children and their families.

Speaking at the launch of a women’s reading club during the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair (KLIBF), Fadhlina said building a reading culture requires not only access to quality books but also an environment that encourages reading as a daily practice.

Reading Habits Begin in Early Childhood

Fadhlina highlighted the importance of developing a love for reading from a young age, noting that the Ministry of Education is strengthening literacy efforts through the implementation of the new preschool curriculum.

A key feature of the curriculum is shared reading activities, where parents and children read together in school settings using quality reading materials.

The initiative reflects growing recognition that early literacy experiences play a vital role in children’s language development, communication skills and lifelong learning habits.

According to the minister, reading should become a natural part of family life, beginning during the preschool years when children are most receptive to language and learning.

RM10 Million Allocated to Support Preschool Reading

To support the initiative, the ministry’s Educational Resources and Technology Division has allocated RM10 million to preschools nationwide.

The funding will be used to promote reading activities and create conducive reading corners within preschool environments.

Fadhlina said these spaces are intended to encourage meaningful reading experiences for young learners while also strengthening parent-child engagement through shared reading sessions.

The move aligns with broader efforts to make literacy a foundational component of early childhood education.

Vision of a Reading Nation

Fadhlina said her aspiration is for Malaysia to become a society where reading is embraced as a way of life.

She described a future where conversations extend beyond everyday greetings and include discussions about books, ideas and learning.

The minister shared that the vision was inspired by a book she encountered during a previous visit to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) in Paris.

She added that the goal could be achieved if individuals take small but consistent steps, such as dedicating at least 10 minutes each day to reading.

Strong Interest at Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair

Meanwhile, Kota Buku Corporation chief executive officer Adibah Omar said this year’s Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair is expected to attract around 2.1 million visitors over its 10-day run.

She noted that visitor turnout on the opening day was particularly encouraging despite its proximity to the Aidiladha celebration.

The fair features 1,200 booths, including international exhibitors from China showcasing newly published titles.

A hybrid format has also been introduced to allow readers outside the Klang Valley to access promotions and participate in the event online.

Building Lifelong Readers Starts Early

The ministry’s latest preschool literacy initiatives underscore a growing understanding that reading habits are best cultivated during the earliest years of childhood.

By creating reading-friendly preschool environments and encouraging families to read together, educators hope to lay the foundation for a future generation of confident readers, lifelong learners and active participants in Malaysia’s knowledge-driven society.

Source:

The Star – “Malaysia has potential to become ‘reading city’ within 20 years, says Fadhlina”

Thoughtfully adapted by KiddyNews. Keeping parents and educators informed with the latest ECCE developments from Malaysia and beyond.