BookFest @ Malaysia returns this year with a meaningful milestone — its 20th Anniversary — marking two decades of championing books, knowledge and a vibrant reading culture.
Taking place from March 18 to 26 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), this year’s edition embraces the theme “Read 20, Rise Beyond,” celebrating the transformative power of reading and the festival’s remarkable journey over the past 20 years.
Since its inception, BookFest @ Malaysia has grown into one of the nation’s most anticipated literary events, bringing together readers, authors, publishers and communities through a shared love for storytelling.
Recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records in 2016 as the country’s largest trilingual book exposition, the fair continues to serve as a premier platform for readers and knowledge seekers, featuring English, Malay and Chinese publications.
Spanning 100,000 sq ft across Halls 1–5 at KLCC, visitors can explore an extensive showcase of books, assessments, CDs, DVDs, IP collectibles, stationery, gadgets and IT products, along with a variety of titbits. Beyond retail, the nine-day event promises a dynamic line-up of activities, competitions and interactive sessions designed to engage readers of all ages.
Early Bird Craze
Kicking off the celebration is the much-anticipated Early Bird Craze on March 18, where visitors can enjoy free entry and exclusive promotions. Shoppers purchasing two or more books in a single receipt can enjoy 30% off from the original price on selected English, Malay and Chinese titles.
Adding to the excitement, the first 100 customers daily can purchase selected stationery, gadgets and IT products for just RM1 nett with a minimum spend of RM30 nett. This special promotion runs on March 18 and 19 at 10am and 2pm, limited to the first 50 customers per session on a first-come, first-served basis.
Popular Card members are rewarded further, with the first 100 members who spend RM250 nett and above receiving an exclusive foldable trolley cart worth RM109.90.
Live Orchestra
One of the standout highlights of the anniversary celebration is the BookFest 20th Anniversary Live Orchestra Concert, taking place on March 23 at 3pm at Conference Halls 1–3 (Level 3), KLCC Convention Centre.
The performance will be led by members of the Persatuan Bunyi-Bunyian Shin Yun, an ensemble renowned for blending traditional Chinese music with contemporary orchestral arrangements.
Featuring 26 musical instruments under the direction of a conductor, the orchestra will present a curated selection of iconic hits from the 1980s to 2000s, promising a nostalgic journey across generations.
Special guest appearances by Priscilla Abby and Fuying & Sam will further elevate the musical experience.
Tickets are priced at RM60 nett and are available at selected Popular and Harris bookstores as well as online.
Choir and Colouring competitions
In line with its mission to cultivate young minds, BookFest @ Malaysia 2026 features engaging competitions for children. The Children’s Choir Competition returns on March 19 from 10am to 11.45am, showcasing talented young performers competing for prizes worth over RM6,500.
Creativity continues with the “Read 20, Rise Beyond” Children’s Colouring Competition on March 26 at the Main Stage, Hall 1. Category A (aged five to eight) will take place from 10am to 11am, followed by Category B (aged nine to 12) from 11.30am to 12.30pm.
With prizes worth over RM10,400 sponsored by Faber-Castell, the competition provides a vibrant platform for artistic expression. The first 100 participants in each category will also receive an exclusive free gift, adding excitement to this highly anticipated activity.
Hope for Reading
Beyond celebrations and promotions, BookFest @ Malaysia continues its meaningful community outreach through the “Hope for Reading” Charity Campaign.
Organised by Popular in collaboration with Sin Chew Daily since 2012, the campaign aims to improve educational opportunities for underprivileged communities by providing access to quality reading materials.
In conjunction with the 20th Anniversary, visitors are encouraged to purchase limited edition BookFest bookmarks and tote bags, with all proceeds channelled towards supporting reading initiatives for those in need. The bookmarks, sold in a set of five at RM10 nett and the tote bag priced at RM16 nett, allow visitors to contribute meaningfully while commemorating the milestone celebration.
Open daily from 10am to 10pm, BookFest @ Malaysia 2026 stands ready to welcome readers to KLCC for nine days of stories, celebration and shared passion.
For more information, visit www.bookfestmalaysia.com.
