National Library of Malaysia (PNM) is working to amend the Deposit of Library Material Act 1986 to include Braille publications under its requirements.
This helps preserve books and improve access for people with visual impairments.
PNM director-general Edy Irwan Zulkafli said the proposed amendment was part of its Strategic Plan 2024-2028 to make collections and services more accessible to persons with disabilities.
He said engagement sessions with stakeholders were underway, with PNM hoping to have the amendments finalised and passed by Parliament by 2028.
“Knowledge belongs to everyone,” he said at the closing ceremony of PNM’s “2026 Day with Persons with Disabilities” programme at the library in Kuala Lumpur.
Held in conjunction with World White Cane Day, which recognises the independence and rights of people with visual impairments, the event drew more than 250 participants in person and online.
It marked the culmination of activities held since August to promote reading, showcase talent and improve access to information for persons with disabilities.
Edy Irwan said PNM would expand its reading programmes for the disabled community in 2027.
“At the same time, we will strengthen cooperation with local and international institutions and agencies to develop accessible collections, including encouraging more people to volunteer to record audiobooks.
“Since establishing our OKU Corner in 2017, we have reproduced 85 Braille book titles and 103 audiobook titles for people with visual impairments.”
He said its “Sumbang Suara” initiative enabled members of the public to lend their voices to help the library produce more audiobooks.
“PNM is one of four organisations authorised under the Marrakesh Treaty to produce and distribute reading materials in accessible formats for people who are blind, visually impaired or otherwise unable to read standard print,” he added.
The treaty eases copyright restrictions so books can be reproduced and shared in accessible formats, such as Braille and audiobooks, for people who cannot read standard print.
The other authorised entities are the Malaysian Association for the Blind, Persatuan Orang-Orang Cacat Penglihatan Islam Malaysia and St Nicholas’ Home, a training centre for people with visual impairments.
Edy Irwan said the treaty helped remove copyright barriers to producing and sharing these materials, supporting access to information and education.
“PNM will also work more closely with non-governmental organisations, special education institutions and local communities to expand its accessible collections and strengthen reading programmes.
“I hope today’s programme will be a starting point for greater efforts in the future,” he said.
Participants were from special education institutions, and disability organisations, besides university students.
Activities included a nationwide narrative video competition for persons with disabilities, as well as a poetry and syair recitation competition.
Ten finalists were recognised in each competition.
