Being critical of made-in-Malaysia books is all about being supportive

What do you think of books published in Asia? Start a conversation with our columnist in this new monthly focus on local English books.

"Wanted: Encouragers. (We have a surplus of critics already, thanks.) – The World.”

These words greet new members of the Malaysian Writers Facebook group founded by aspiring author Tina Isaacs. This is a space where Malaysian writers can “interact”, “give/receive support”, post “writing/reading/book launch events”, “share or seek writing tips”, and discuss “industry related matters” or “anything that may be of interest to other members”. 

Isaac’s welcome post also encourages “robust discussion” but reminds members to be “polite and amicable”, “refrain from personal attacks”, and suggests we “agree to disagree”.

What does the last mean? Is it about two people who disagree deciding to stop discussing a matter? How does “robust discussion” fit into this kind of (non)exchange? 

In my opinion, agreeing to disagree means the end of a conversation. It suggests that we sweep things under the carpet, cease to share, and deprive one another of the benefit of hearing and considering opposing views.

What is the alternative? To continue to disagree? I don’t think that’s such a bad thing provided those in disagreement are mature enough not to allow their opposing opinions colour the way they respond to each other outside that particular matter. Discussions can get heated, but that’s a good thing because it reflects the passion one feels about something. 

But I do agree with Isaacs that personal attacks are uncalled for. Let’s keep to the subject at hand. For example, a book, a piece of writing, a publishing manifesto. Critical comments about all of the above shouldn’t, in my opinion, be discouraged.

Why not see critics as “encouragers”? If someone doesn’t like something and can explain why, shouldn’t they be urged to voice their views? I see negative feedback as a chance to learn something, to see things from a different perspective. It’s never easy hearing someone slam your ideas. Believe me, I’ve cried over what’s been said about my short stories or newspaper articles. 

Still, I do believe that listening to criticism is one way of becoming a better anything. And I believe that offering honest, non-malicious feedback, including pointing out what you don’t like or don’t understand about something, is one of the most sincere ways of showing support.

In this new column, I aim to offer my sincere and honest opinion about all aspects of the Malaysian publishing scene. I will be commenting as a reader, writer, and editor of Malaysian fiction. Most of all, I will be commenting as someone who wishes to see the local book industry grow and flourish.

I’m excited that there are so many Malaysians who want to be writers. I’m excited that there are Malaysian writers who have done well enough to act as role models and inspire the rest of us. I’m excited that my bookcases are full of interesting and well-written Malaysian fiction and non-fiction.

Sure, there are duds there too, but books of dodgy quality exist in all markets, and I do plan to write about every aspect of Malaysian publishing – the good, the bad and the ugly.

Do check out Local, the Facebook page that promotes Malaysian books (facebook.com/ReadLocalBooks) and also the Malaysian Fiction Book Club group (tinyurl.com/noxebzc). There’s also the Local website (readlocal.weebly.com), with reviews of Malaysian books and interviews with Malaysian authors.

If there’s anything about the local book scene you want me to discuss, do e-mail me. And if you haven’t already begun your Malaysian reading journey, why not investigate the local fiction shelves on your next trip to a book store? You may be pleasantly surprised. Or not. Either way, it’ll be something to write to me about.

Happy reading!

¦ One of Daphne's resolutions for 2015 is to read more Malaysian and regional fiction. This week’s books are A Call To Travel: Muslim Odysseys by Rumaizah Abu Bakar (Silverfish Books, 2015) and The Tower by Isa Kamari (Epigram Books, 2013).