Why reading habits are fading and what can be done

PETALING JAYA - Reading habits among Malaysians appear to be declining as digital content increasingly dominates everyday life.

With the rise of social media, short-form videos and constant screen use, many are spending less time engaging with books and long-form reading materials.

While access to information has grown, concerns are mounting that the depth of understanding and critical thinking traditionally associated with reading may be diminishing.

Observers say that although Malaysians are still reading, much of it is limited to quick, fragmented content that offers little long-term value.

This shift, they warn, could have wider implications on how individuals process information, make decisions and engage with complex issues in the long run.

Family Reading Community Movement Chairman Nik Mohd Hasyudeen Yusoff said reading plays a key role in building a knowledgeable and competitive society, but new approaches are needed to suit today’s digital lifestyle.

He said people must start seeing reading as a practical way to solve problems and improve their lives.

“Reading is important, but we must find better ways to make it relevant today. We want people to see reading as a solution to their daily challenges,” he said when met at the Reading Community Gathering programme today.

The inaugural event brought together industry players, including well-known writers such as Roslan Ab Hamid, Sri Diah Shahruddin and Fatini Yaacob to plan a shared direction in strengthening reading habits.

Meanwhile, Karangkraf advisor Datuk Hussamuddin Yaacub said efforts to revive reading require strong commitment from all parties.

Karangkraf advisor Datuk Hussamuddin Yaacub.

He said the focus now should not be on downstream aspects like publishing or book sales, but on building a reading culture itself.

“This approach was proven through the success of the QuranHour campaign, which gained international recognition.

“If a reading culture is successfully built, other ecosystems such as writers, publishers, printers and booksellers will grow naturally,” he said.

Hussamuddin added that the need to revive awareness about reading is in line with Islam’s first command, ‘Iqra’ (read).

He said people today are still reading, but not focusing on beneficial materials that provide long-term value.

“The benefits of reading are huge, but many have forgotten. We need to remind society that reading shapes thinking, increases knowledge and can change lives,” he said.

He added that previous generations, who had limited entertainment options, were more inclined to read, which helped them achieve success.

He stressed that collective cooperation from all parties, including leaders, the book industry and the media is needed to make this effort successful.

“If everyone carries the same message and focuses on one goal which is reading, the impact on society will be much greater,” he said.