By Zareef Muzammil
SHAH ALAM, Nov 24 — The Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj has contributed 2,658 books from His Royal Highness’ collection for visitors to the Raja Tun Uda Library since 2011.
Selangor Public Library Corporation (PPAS) director Datin Paduka Mastura Muhamad said the books include biographies, management, and history, all of which are limited editions.
“His Royal Highness’ donated books are on the fourth floor of the library. Visitors can borrow these books but must read them on-site and return them afterwards.
“All types and titles of books donated by the Sultan are interesting and have become the favourites of many readers,” she said after the launch of Yayasan Perpustakaan Raja Tun Uda yesterday.
In addition to Sultan Sharafuddin, Mastura said other royal relatives also contributed books to the library, including Raja Muda Selangor Tengku Amir Shah, Tengku Datin Paduka Setia Zatashah, and His Royal Highness’ granddaughter Layla.
Mastura added that the Sultan also called on private companies and other government agencies to do the same and enhance the library’s collection.
“His Royal Highness urges agencies to contribute, including Yayasan Al-Bukhari, the Selangor Zakat Board, and Tenaga Nasional Berhad. Alhamdulillah, we have managed to collect over 5,000 books through the contributions of the relevant parties,” she said.
The number of books the public borrows from the library has reached 1.75 million since 2011.
Meanwhile, PPAS also seeks to expand its special services to assist people with disabilities (OKU), particularly those with hearing impairment and autism, next year.
Mastura said the corporation has provided 300 Braille books for the visually impaired at the library, to date.
“Currently, many young children experience autism-related issues, and it has increased dramatically due to parents being too engrossed in playing with mobile phones and being less communicative with their children. So, we will provide services for them here.
“Simultaneously, we will establish a network with university lecturers who specialise in this field, which includes obtaining state government funding to hire a minimum of seven to 14 people to manage this service,” she said.
The facilities for special needs individuals align with the library’s second phase development project, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
“To provide this service, we do not need to wait until the new building is ready; instead, we have already started here (in the existing building).
“At least the state government and donors see this facility will benefit special needs individuals,” Mastura said.
Regarding the project’s progress, the director said the contractor appointment process has been completed and is awaiting planning approval from the Shah Alam City Council.
“We hope this project can start shortly, in line with His Royal Highness’ desire to see it completed within three years.
“It will meet the needs of all communities, including pregnant women, infants, children, teenagers, adults, and the elderly. A Royal Gallery will also be developed to collect the Sultan’s special collection,” she said.
