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‘Libraries still popular choice for students'

Published on: Friday, April 25, 2025 Published on: Fri, Apr 25, 2025 By: Mardinah Jikur Text Size: Harun, Dalmansa, George and the attendees reading books for 10 minutes during the event which was held simultaneously nationwide. KINABATANGAN: Libraries continue to be a popular choice for obtaining information, particularly for students seeking educational resources. Assistant Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation (KSTI), Datuk Harun Durabi, said this is evident from the steady number of visitors to libraries across the State. 'Despite the world moving rapidly towards new technologies, libraries remain relevant,' he said. Harun made the statement when speaking to the media after officiating the 'Let's Read Together for 10 Minutes' programme and the closing ceremony of the 2025 Sabah State-Level Gempak Literacy Carnival, held at the Kinabatangan Branch of the State Library on Wednesday. He was representing his Minister, Datuk Mohd Arifin Mohd Arif. Also present were the Director of Sabah State Library, George Yih Ching Yaw, Kinabatangan District Education Officer Dr. Dalmansa Tahil, Lamag Community Development Leader Johainizamshah Johari, school students and representatives from various departments and agencies. Harun encouraged libraries across the State to maintain productivity and creativity in line with current technological advancements. He added that KSTI remains committed to ensuring students have continued access to relevant technologies. Commenting on the 10-minute reading initiative, Harun said the programme is an effective way to spark students' and the public's interest in reading, while enriching their knowledge. Earlier, when delivering the speech on behalf of Minister Arifin, He congratulated the Sabah State Library (PNS) for its dedicated efforts in organising the 'Let's Read Together for 10 Minutes' programme, held simultaneously across Malaysia today under the theme 'Enjoy the Moment', and the first-ever Sabah State-Level Gempak Literacy Carnival 2025. Among the key collaborators were the Sabah State Education Department, Petrosains Playsmart, and various other departments and agencies. 'This initiative is crucial in strengthening the reading culture among Malaysians, especially in Sabah,' he said. 'The 'Let's Read Together for 10 Minutes' programme not only aims to cultivate a reading habit, but also promotes a culture of knowledge that has a positive impact on our lives – aligning with the nation's goal to build an informed and educated society.' The Gempak Literacy Carnival 2025, which ran from April 19 to 21, carried the theme 'One Carnival, One Inspiration'. More than just a slogan, it brought together various communities, cultures, knowledge and talents on a single platform. Harun described the carnival as a progressive initiative by the Sabah State Library to make literacy a key agenda in community development. 'The concept of this carnival is not limited to reading activities alone. It includes a range of events that promote unity, culture, morals, and recreation – offering the community opportunities to explore and develop their potential,' he said. 'This is a great example of how literacy extends beyond just reading – it also involves practical skills with economic potential, such as handicraft making,' he added. The carnival involved five key districts in Sabah: Sandakan, Kinabatangan, Telupid, Beluran and Lahad Datu. This collaboration symbolises strong unity and cooperation among local communities. Harun expressed confidence that the carnival would significantly contribute to fostering a reading culture across Sabah. 'By involving multiple districts, this event offers more people the chance to participate in various activities, enrich their experiences, and strengthen the overall reading culture in Sabah,' he said. Earlier, George noted that literacy is not just about interest in reading materials, but is a core element in developing a knowledgeable, critically thinking, and future-ready society. 'Literacy also plays a vital role in shaping character, decision-making skills, and the ability to recognise and make the most of opportunities around us,' he said. This year, the Kinabatangan Branch of the Sabah State Library was selected as the venue for the 'Let's Read Together for 10 Minutes' programme and the closing ceremony of the State-Level Gempak Literacy Carnival. George said the selection was significant, as the branch is newly established and holds great potential for expanding access to knowledge, particularly for rural communities. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia