Books still alive and well amid digital age, say writers at KL Book Fair 2025

New Straits Times

5 days ago

KUALA LUMPUR: Despite the rise of TikTok, Reels and fast-paced digital content, books are far from dead, as proven by the strong turnout at the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair (PBAKL) 2025.
The event drew thousands of visitors, signalling that the appetite for knowledge, reflection and meaningful storytelling remains strong, especially among the younger generation.
Iddin Ramli, 28, a young writer gaining popularity among youth, brought a fresh perspective this year.
No longer writing solely for self-healing, Iddin has shifted his focus to Islamic-themed works, drawing inspiration from the Quran and the life of Prophet Muhammad.
"This year, my work centres on Islamic concepts. We examine verses from the Quran and relate them to the stories of the Prophet. I want people to see Islam as a path to happiness.
"Today's greatest challenge is engaging young people who are more drawn to screens than to flipping the pages of a book. Publishing is easy, but getting people to read is the real challenge. We have to work harder," he said.
For 27-year-old Aisyah Hijanah Azhari, writing is not about influence but a sacred trust.
"What remains after us is not the number of views but the knowledge that continues to benefit others even after we are gone. I write so that my work becomes a continuous charity that keeps giving.
"Today's writing scene is marred by influencer books that look appealing on the surface but are empty inside. Not all books are beneficial. We need honest writers who share from real experience," she said.
Her husband, Mohd Hazalif Mohd Hazani, also known as Alif Teega, 31, said he writes not to follow trends but to touch hearts.
"Many people write books now, but do they truly help others? I don't write because it's 'trendy'. I write because I've been through it and want to share so that others know they are not alone."
Alif believes that platforms like TikTok and BookTok have helped boost sales and sparked interest in reading among those distant from books.
"Now, you can sell many books in a day with a video. Even those who didn't read before are starting to take an interest. That's the magic of it," he added.
Meanwhile, actor, comedian, and artist Datuk A Rahim Muda, better known as Datuk Imuda, 66, also participated in PBAKL 2025 with his own books.
"Even though the world is changing, I believe books will always have their place as long as they remain fresh and of high quality," he said.
"I remember when books were overlooked, but just look at this book fair — even finding a parking spot is difficult. People still want to read and thirst for knowledge."
Imuda said today's writers must produce works relevant to new generations instead of recycling old stories.