After a temporary closure in early 2022, independent Tintabudi bookshop is reopening this weekend at a new location in Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Kuala Lumpur. Photo: Tintabudi
This weekend, bibliophiles in the Klang Valley can anticipate a flurry of literary delight with numerous bookshop events, the revival of an independent bookstore, and a literary festival celebrating local talent.
Here's your checklist:
TINTABUDI BOOKSHOP OPEN DAY
Venue: A-1-13, Plaza TTDI, Jalan Wan Kadir 3, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Kuala Lumpur
Date: April 27, 10am
The reopening of an independent bookshop in Kuala Lumpur is always an occasion worth celebrating. After a temporary closure in early 2022, Tintabudi, a beloved literary hangout, is making its long-awaited return this weekend. With a larger space, the bookstore is poised to re-engage with its loyal patrons while extending a warm welcome to newcomers.
Tintabudi's mission has always been to prioritise the lifelong pursuit of knowledge above all else. Its carefully selected collection spans various subjects, including philosophy, history, and literature, reflecting this ethos. Embracing the spirit of continuity and innovation, the bookshop offers both pre-loved and brand-new books to cater to diverse preferences.
KL WRITERS FESTIVAL
Venue: KL City Art Gallery, Taman Seputeh, Kuala Lumpur
Date: April 27, 2pm
The KL Writers Festival is set to add excitement to the Klang Valley literary scene, with a series of book launches, enlightening author sessions, soul-stirring poetry, invaluable copyright insights, empowering self-publishing guidance and a mini book fair.
The free admission event will feature a line-up of nearly 20 writers, including Ahmad Murad Merican, Malachi Edwin Vethamani, S. Munirah Alatas, Jack Malik, Aishah Zainal, Nathaniel Sario, Terence Toh, Kalsom Taib and Allein G. Moore.
'A BRAZILIAN IN KUALA LUMPUR: THE KLCC PARK AND ROBERTO BURLE MARX'
Venue: Rumah Attap Library, The Zhongshan Building, KL
Date: April 27, 5pm
In celebration of World Design Day, Ary Norton de Murat Quintella, the Ambassador of Brazil to Malaysia, is conducting a talk on the works of world-renowned Brazilian landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx and his only project in Asia, the KLCC Park.
The public can join the discussion, organised by the Malaysian Design Archive, on the genesis and conception behind KLCC Park and its significance to the urban planning and visual mark of Kuala Lumpur. The talk is based on the book A Brazilian In Kuala Lumpur: The KLCC Park And Roberto Burle Marx, published in January this year by the Embassy of Brazil. The talk will be moderated by art historian-researcher Simon Soon. Free admission.
YEOH JO-ANN – 'DEPLORABLE CONVERSATIONS WITH CATS AND OTHER DISTRACTIONS'
Venue: Lit Books, Petaling Jaya
Date: April 27, 8pm
Yeoh Jo-Ann, a Malaysian-born author now residing in Singapore, will be making an appearance at Lit Books, an independent bookstore, to discuss her latest book, Deplorable Conversations With Cats And Other Distractions.
At this bookshop meet, Yeoh will also reflect on her journey as a writer since her debut novel, Impractical Uses Of Cake, which secured the 2018 Epigram Books Fiction Prize (in Singapore). Ticketed event, Lit Books co-founder Elaine Lau will be hosting the in-store session.
MALACHI EDWIN VETHAMANI - 'HAVE I GOT SOMETHING TO TELL YOU'
Venue: Eslite Bookstore, The Starhill, Kuala Lumpur
Date: April 28, 2pm
Renowned author Shih-Li Kow will join writer-poet Malachi Edwin Vethamani in conversation, delving into his latest short story anthology, Have I Got Something To Tell You. The book discussion will centre on the craft of writing and underscore the significance of locally sourced content in elevating the literary standards of the nation. Free admission.
NADIYAH SUYATNA: RIMBUN DAHAN OPEN DAY
Venue: Rimbun Dahan, Km 27, Jalan Kuang, Kuang, Selangor
Date: April 28, 11am
Nadiyah Suyatna, a comic artist/illustrator hailing from Indonesia, is currently immersed in a two-month residency at Rimbun Dahan, focusing on her graphic novel, Smoldering, which delves into the complexities of fire governance in Central Kalimantan.
This Sunday at Rimbun Dahan's Open Day, Nadiyah will offer a glimpse into the progress she's made on Smoldering during her residency. Set against the backdrop of Central Kalimantan during the dry season, the novel follows the journey of Elin and Bunga, two high school girls traversing the tumultuous terrain of adolescence.
TUAN NINI - 'DEAR BROTHER' SIGNING SESSION
Venue: Lit Books, Petaling Jaya
Date: April 28, 2pm
Wrapping up a bustling weekend, Lit Books welcomes Tuan Nini, a freelance artist-illustrator originally from Malaysia but now residing in Bucharest, Romania. She will be autographing copies of Dear Brother, a children's book beautifully illustrated by her, written by Alison McGhee.
Join Tuan Nini to explore how the artwork enhances a heartwarming and comical tale of sibling rivalry transformed into acceptance. Whether you're a fan or an aspiring illustrator, it's a good opportunity to gain insights into breaking into the illustration field. Free admission.