DESPITE my trepidation, I made it a point to visit a book sale recently.
It was the weekend, and I knew it wouldn’t be easy making my way there. Sure enough, it took me a while to reach the mall in Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
But it was a pleasant surprise to see such a turnout of book lovers. It was also encouraging to know that there are still many avid readers around.
I saw parents bringing their children, no doubt hoping to inspire a love of reading. Many bought books, and I noticed quite a few prams in the hall.
Clearly, these parents were determined – not only willing to brave heavy traffic, but also adamant about exposing their toddlers and babies to the joy of reading.
Perhaps those who thronged the sale were mostly diehard book readers, having developed the habit at a young age, probably from watching their parents pore over books at home.
Now in my 70s, I still enjoy reading, and I believe the best way to inculcate the habit is through newspapers.
Reading a newspaper daily is the best way to cultivate knowledge, wisdom and moral values.
It is also a productive pastime that can improve students’ English proficiency. Once they develop an interest in reading, they are more likely to venture into novels and other materials.
Relying solely on digital content may not foster a strong reading habit, as users often skim bite-sized information, which does little to strengthen language proficiency.
Printed materials like newspapers encourage deeper engagement with the written word.
To promote a reading culture, the government could consider subsidising newspapers, making them an accessible and invaluable resource in every household.
After all, a knowledgeable, well-informed society that is proficient in English must start at home.
THIAGAN MATHIAPARANAM
Retired teacher
Klang
With the theme of the article in mind, carry out the following English language activities.
1 What is one book you would recommend to your friends? Explain your choice.
2 Find an article in today’s newspaper that you enjoyed reading. Give a brief description to a friend. Can your friend guess which article it is?
The Star’s Newspaper-in-Education (Star-NiE) programme promotes English language learning in primary and secondary schools nationwide. For Star-NiE enquiries, email starnie@thestar.com.my.
