KUCHING: The Sarawak Book Fair and Authors Festival next week is a platform to promote reading and knowledge, says Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian.
The Deputy Premier said this was in line with Sarawak’s goal of becoming a developed state by 2030.
“Reading is important for gaining knowledge. As we move towards 2030, we want to be a smart Sarawak, equipped with knowledge for us to achieve our target,” he said when announcing the book fair here on Friday (Oct 25).
Dr Sim also highlighted the need for Sarawakians to write more books as part of becoming a more knowledgeable society.
He said Sarawak produced 648 titles last year, short of the ratio of one book per 1,000 people in developed countries.
“With our population of 2.8mil people, we should produce 2,800 books, so we have a long way to go,” he said.
Organised by the Sarawak State Library, the week-long book fair starting next Monday (Oct 28) aims to promote the publishing and book industry in Sarawak, provide a platform for local writers to network with publishers and encourage the public to engage with reading materials.
Its line-up of activities includes author meet-and-greet sessions, literacy talks and workshops.
Besides the book fair, there will also be craft sales by special needs organisations.
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