The Home Ministry has launched a probe after receiving complaints of "obscene" Malay language novels being sold at the Selangor International Book Fair (SIBF 2023) in Shah Alam.
The event's director Zafrullah Aris confirmed this in a statement today.
"Complaints have been made against viral posts on social media that claimed obscene novels are being openly sold (at the event), and the Home Ministry is conducting an investigation.
"The SIBF2023 secretariat is ever willing to cooperate with the Home Ministry to monitor and check the contents (of books) that are being sold, from time to time," he said.
SIBF2023 is being held at the MBSA Convention Centre in Shah Alam from Dec 1 to 10.
A netizen recently claimed children and teenagers were buying the "obscene" novels at the fair, despite them being clearly labelled for adult reading.
According to the Facebook user, children aged between 11 and 13 are even asking their parents or guardians to purchase the books on their behalf.
The novels are said to have elements unsuitable for children, including rape, the relationship between individuals with more than 40 years of age difference, and domestic violence.
Elaborating, Zafrullah said SIBF2023 aims to cater to readers of all age groups.
"Visitors can get quality reading materials at the event, and the secretariat has taken various steps to ensure only suitable material is sold to customers.
"Continuous briefing and reminders on this are issued to everyone involved in the event, before, and during the event," he said, adding that parents should also take heed of what their children are buying at the fair and reading. - Mkini
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