STUDIES in cognitive psychology suggest that readers tend to retain information better when reading physical books, says Assoc Prof Dr Chooi Weng Tink (pic).
“When you read a physical book, more senses are involved.
“You turn pages, feel the paper and navigate through a fixed text.
“That can make the experience more engaging and help with memory retention,” said the Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) psychology lecturer.
“Reading on cellphones, tablets and computers often comes with distractions, as these devices are also used for social media, messaging and entertainment,” she said.
“Reading takes cognitive work, whereas videos and social media clips stimulate the eyes rather than the brain,” she said.
She added that physical books were also easier on the eyes than digital screens.
As technology and digital media increasingly dominated daily life, she expressed concern that many young people no longer saw the need to read.
“We should return to traditional methods and learn how to be human again.
“We are too dependent on machines,” Chooi opined.
The lecturer, who spent about a decade studying and working in the United States, said she used a Kindle e-reader before eventually returning to printed books, noting that physical volumes carry enduring social and cultural value.
Addressing declining reading habits among university students, Chooi noted that this was a global phenomenon.
“Gen Z students are heavily exposed to short videos, so they prefer watching clips to reading.
“That is troubling because reading allows people to process information slowly, understand complex arguments and develop critical thinking skills – abilities that short-form content can weaken,” she said.
To encourage better reading habits, the lecturer emphasised that schools, parents and communities must work together.
“Teachers can integrate reading directly into assignments to give students that initial push, with the hope that they eventually discover the joy of reading,” she said.
She also advocated for public reading activities, book discussions and literacy programmes − particularly in low-income and B40 areas − supported by grassroots initiatives like community libraries and book-sharing schemes.
“If we want more people to read, we need to make materials visible and accessible in places where people gather, such as public transport hubs, markets and community spaces,” said Chooi.
“This includes public housing areas. There are older people who lacked educational opportunities when they were young but still want to learn. They simply need guidance and the right resources,” she added.
