From books to screens: Rebuilding a reading culture in a digital nation

 

ON World Book Day 2026, it is timely for Malaysians to reflect on the state of reading in the country. When we ask whether people are still reading, the answer is no longer straightforward.

Reading today does not take place only within the pages of printed books. It occurs across devices, through social media platforms, online articles, digital libraries and multimedia content.

For many Malaysians, particularly younger readers, reading has shifted into the digital space. This should not be viewed negatively by default. Instead, it reflects how literacy is evolving alongside technology.

Digital content now serves not only as entertainment but also as a source of information, global awareness and exposure to diverse perspectives. It would be inaccurate to assume that reading has declined simply because its format has changed.

At the national level, Malaysia has demonstrated a clear commitment to strengthening literacy. The National Education Blueprint 2026–2035 places renewed emphasis on literacy development as a foundational priority.

Initiatives such as KotaBaca and Projek BacaBaca aim to cultivate reading culture in schools and communities. Efforts to review programmes like NILAM and reassess the National Reading Index reflect a recognition that reading habits are changing and measurement approaches must evolve accordingly.

(Image: NBC)

At the same time, a significant proportion of young Malaysians are now digital readers. This reality requires a rethink of how literacy is nurtured.

Digital content, when used constructively, can support literacy growth. However, without intentional engagement, it can also encourage shallow and fragmented consumption of information.

One of the most influential forces shaping digital reading habits today is the algorithm. Social media platforms curate content based on user behaviour, preferences and networks.

While this increases personalisation and convenience, it can also limit exposure to diverse or challenging material. Over time, individuals may find themselves engaging repeatedly with content that reinforces existing views rather than expanding them.

This does not mean digital platforms are harmful by nature. Rather, it highlights the importance of conscious engagement. Literacy in the digital age requires discernment.

Readers must actively seek credible sources, engage with long-form content, and expose themselves to ideas that broaden perspective. Without this effort, reading risks becoming reactive, fast-paced and emotionally driven rather than reflective and analytical.

World Book Day therefore offers an opportunity to rethink what reading means today. It is not about choosing between printed books and digital platforms. Both have important roles.

Printed books offer depth, structure and sustained focus. Digital formats provide accessibility, immediacy and wider reach. The challenge is not preference, but balance.

Families and educators play a key role in shaping intentional reading habits. Encouraging children to engage with reputable digital libraries, long-form articles and credible educational platforms can gradually influence their digital environments.

Even simple actions—such as discussing reading materials at home or subscribing to reliable sources—can help shape the content ecosystems individuals are exposed to.

(Image: Socialinsider)

While national policies and programmes provide direction, the cultivation of reading habits ultimately depends on individuals and communities. Infrastructure can support literacy, but engagement sustains it.

As Malaysia continues to invest in literacy initiatives, it is equally important for citizens to recognise their role in shaping their own reading journeys. Access to information is no longer the main barrier. The greater challenge lies in selecting, evaluating and engaging with information meaningfully.

On this World Book Day, Malaysians should not only ask whether they are reading, but how they are reading. In an age of constant information flow, literacy must be guided by intention rather than impulse.

By consciously choosing meaningful content and encouraging others to do the same, we help build a reading culture that is adaptive, thoughtful and enduring.

Reading remains central to personal and national development. While formats continue to evolve, the responsibility to engage with knowledge critically and intentionally remains unchanged. 

The author, Adelina Asmawi is an Associate Professor at the Department of Language and Literacy Education, Faculty of Education, Universiti Malaya.

The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT. 

- Focus Malaysia.