SHAH ALAM, Dec 7 — The state's book production and publishing industry is showing encouraging progress with the emergence of young writers and publishers who continue to strengthen the knowledge agenda through new works.
Menteri Besar Dato' Seri Amirudin Shari said the growing number of publishers exploring various genres demonstrates that Selangor has the potential to produce more quality creators on par with those abroad.
“The production and publication of books is a good indicator, as many young publishers are now coming forward to publish translated works and rare titles.
“The creation of works, including journals, fiction writing, or novels, continues even in the face of widespread information technology challenges,” he said at the 'Malam Baca Puisi Pena: Serumpun Sebudaya' programme in conjunction with the Selangor International Book Fair (SIBF) 2025 last night.
Amirudin reminded the publishing industry to address new challenges, particularly authenticity amid the widespread use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the creative process.
At the event, he launched the latest book by National Poetry Laureate Marzuki Ali, titled Kereta Senja Dari Bandoeng ke Kota Parahyangan, and recited the poem Simpang Siur by Datuk Ramzah Dambul.
The evening was further enlivened by poetry recitations by National Laureates Datuk Zurinah Hassan and Datuk Rahman Shaari, while the group Adiwangsa Sukma performed the songs 'Senandung Anak Desa' and 'Perjalanan', adding to the beauty of the literary night.
