KUALA LUMPUR: Women who cultivate a strong reading habit play a vital role in shaping an informed society and advancing national development, says Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek.
"Women reading is part of the agenda of building the nation," Fadhlina said when officiating the Women Reading Club’s (Kelab Perempuan Membaca) inaugural session, themed "Women and the Nation," at Semua House on Saturday (Aug 8).
Fadhlina emphasised the need to build a lifelong reading ecosystem, encouraging children to start early and adults to maintain the habit as a matter of cultural discipline.
She also called for more publications documenting the contributions of prominent Malaysian women, highlighting titles such as Ibu Melayu Mengelilingi Dunia dari Rumah ke London (tracing Tan Sri Aishah Ghani's life) and The Rapid Fire (featuring Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz).
"Reading must be progressive. We must also challenge ourselves to read outside our comfort zone," she said, noting that the initiative feeds into the broader Gerakan Membaca Negara (National Reading Movement).
Launched by Fadhlina at the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair in May, the Kota Buku-organised club has grown to nearly 5,000 members nationwide. It will feature monthly themed sessions through mid-2027.
Perbadanan Kota Buku Chief Executive Officer Adibah Omar said Saturday's session drew about 150 physical participants and over 100 online attendees. To support mothers, the organiser provided dedicated childcare activities during the session.
"We want to give mothers the space and opportunity to leave their children in safe hands, participate in shared activities, and sit with us to read and discuss," Adibah said.
Following strong nationwide interest, Adibah announced plans to expand the initiative beyond the Klang Valley. Kota Buku will offer seed funding and support for state governments, NGOs, and local groups interested in hosting regional chapters.
