By Mustakim Ramli
SHAH ALAM, Dec 12 — Exhibitors at the Selangor Book Fair 2021 did not expect an enthusiastic reception from the public, amid strict standard operating procedures (SOP) aimed at curbing the Covid-19 pandemic.
Hijjaz Records Publishing manager Syamiel Amir said he expected this year’s attendance to be the same as last year, but instead large crowds turned out.
Syamiel said there were fewer visitors last year since many were still afraid of the pandemic.
“But after getting vaccinated, the strict SOPs seem to have given the public confidence in coming for the book fair.
“We did not expect this reaction, and as such we did not stock up on many books. Thankfully the sales this year have been strong compared to before,” he said when met yesterday.
Syamiel, the author of the book Kumpulan Cerpen Etos Anak Negeri Anak Negeri, admitted the reception of his work has been encouraging at the fair, with high demand.
“I must thank the organiser for providing the space and opportunity to writers, allowing us social exposure via our respective works.
“My book for example is in the Jawi script, so it is a mechanism for the public to get works in Jawi,” he said.
Meanwhile a mother allocated RM200 for the fair this time, to fulfill her children’s wishes in getting reading material.
Muzdalifah Mamat, 39, said she only learned of the book fair after her nine-year old eldest child informed her of it.
“I am unsure of where he leard of this, so my husband and me brought the family to personally choose the books they are interested in,” she said.
Private sector worker Hilman Fikri, 26, said he is impressed with the fair’s implementation, which emphasises on the SOPs and gives confidences to its visitors.
“Some might still be afraid to come seeing as how Covid-19 is still present, yet looking at the SOPs used by the organiser, I am confident in being here,” he said, adding he has set aside RM300 to purchase reading materials.
