Amid the bustling crowds and constant stream of visitors at the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair (PBAKL) 2026, a group of young volunteers in distinctive brown uniforms has become a familiar and reassuring presence.
Known as the Book Ambassadors, these volunteers serve not only as the face of the country's largest book fair but also as key facilitators, helping visitors navigate the sprawling exhibition halls at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTCKL).
For a final-year Bachelor of Biology Education student at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Siti Nur Aishah Mohd Zani, 24, serving as a team leader has provided valuable opportunities to develop her leadership and interpersonal skills.
"Here, we learn how to manage a team, interact with people from all walks of life and solve visitors’ problems. All of this contributes to improving our communication skills and self-confidence.
"Although there are no material rewards, the greatest satisfaction comes from knowing that our efforts are appreciated. A simple thank you from a visitor is the sweetest memory,” she said.
Meanwhile, aspiring Malay language teacher Sofea Dayana Dusuki, 22, from the Teacher Education Institute (IPG), described her three consecutive years as a Book Ambassador as an invaluable platform for cultivating discipline and responsibility.
The Kelantan native, who joined the programme in 2024, said one of the biggest challenges during her first year was mastering the layout of the vast exhibition venue to ensure visitors could easily find their destinations.
"At first, it was quite challenging because I had to explain directions clearly, especially to first-time visitors attending PBAKL.
"However, over time, I became familiar with every corner of the exhibition halls and more confident in interacting with the public,” she said.
For UiTM Shah Alam law student Mohamed Yasser Asyraf Abdul Rahman, 22, his passion for books and literature has been the driving force behind his continued commitment as a Book Ambassador for the fourth consecutive year.
He said his experience has enabled him to mentor new volunteers while sharpening his creative and critical-thinking abilities when responding to the diverse needs of visitors.
"Sometimes visitors only show us a picture of a book or provide very general information. That is when we need to think creatively to help them locate the correct title and provide accurate directions,” he said.
For first-time volunteer Nurdamia Husna Ruzaimi, 20, participating in this year’s PBAKL has been a meaningful way to spend her time while awaiting an offer to further her studies.
After discovering the programme through social media, she decided to step out of her comfort zone and embrace a new volunteering experience.
"So far, it has been a very rewarding experience. I have made many new friends and learned how to engage with the public professionally,” she said, adding that she hopes to return as a Book Ambassador in the future.
Throughout the 10-day PBAKL 2026 event, which ends tomorrow (June 7), a total of 54 Book Ambassadors worked in shifts to help ensure the smooth operation of the country's premier book fair.
Beyond assisting with logistics and providing information to visitors, their contribution reflects the enduring spirit of volunteerism among Malaysia’s youth - a spirit that remains vibrant, relevant and dynamic in today’s society. - Bernama
