By Sofia Nasir
SHAH ALAM, April 23 — The Selangor Public Library Corporation (PPAS) registered a record-high of 930,000 books loaned in 2023, compared to the 738,818 recorded in 2022.
State executive councillor for youth Najwan Halimi said the increased number of books borrowed was due to the changes made to its policy since March 1, 2023, which allowed each borrower to loan up to 20 copies instead of 10.
This record-breaking number marked a significant milestone in PPAS’s 52-year history.
“Last year, Malaysians’ average reading habit indicated that individuals read only about 15 to 20 books annually, or less than three hours per week.
“However, I believe this trend will shift with the success of the National Reading Decade (DMK) 2021-2030 programme,” he said during the 10-Minute Read Together programme at the Raja Tun Uda Library today.
The programme’s themes in Selangor are “Read and Be Happy” and “Reading Preserves Unity.”
The 10-Minute Read Together marks its 10th year anniversary this year and has drawn 300 participants from government agencies, higher learning institutions, and schools.
Najwan added that the mass reading movement in Selangor was initiated by PPAS on June 26, 2010, with the support of the Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj.
“The programme was also recognised by The Malaysia Book of Records as ‘The Largest Outdoor Reading Event in Malaysia’,” he said.
Meanwhile, the councillor also announced that PPAS is gearing up to launch transit facilities for school students at 12 selected libraries across the state.
The transit-friendly library initiative, aimed at providing a conducive and comfortable environment for children, is set to commence operations next month.
“We aim to offer a safe environment for children, particularly during the transition period between primary and secondary school sessions.
“The libraries will be equipped with bathroom facilities, including showers, cafes or pantries, as well as prayer and relaxation areas,” he said.
PPAS also plans to collaborate with several non-governmental organisations to enhance the content of its programmes for children in transit.
Najwan said youths could access various skill-building programmes, including sewing, software development, cooking, painting, and entrepreneurship.
“By offering these fundamental programmes, we aim to instil confidence in children, especially youths who are keen on skill development,” he said.
