THE significance of nurturing local non-fiction authors and promoting their works in Malaysia's literary landscape cannot be understated.
They bring a unique perspective to their works, addressing topics that resonate with readers on a personal and cultural level.
The diversity of non-fiction books allows readers from various walks of life to find content that aligns with their interests and experiences.
POPULAR – The Star Readers' Choice Awards (RCA) 2024 plays a crucial role in recognising and celebrating the contributions of these local talents and literature.
Now in its 14th year, this prestigious award not only encourages creativity but also serves as a platform for authors to showcase their literary prowess.
With a focus on both fiction and non-fiction, the awards capture the essence of the local literary scene, catering to the different tastes of Malaysian readers.
The non-fiction category nominees for 2024 present a compelling array of topics, each offering a unique perspective on issues ranging from self-healing, religious teachings, and legal aspects to political sagas, connecting with readers on a profound level.
The nominees for the non-fiction category of POPULAR - The Star RCA 2024 are a formidable lineup of literary works that encapsulate the varied aspects of Malaysian life.
Extensive works
Among the nominees are eight locals, including renowned opinion writer Joe Samad and his book titled Unequal Partners. The book is a compilation of his writings, which provides an analysis and discussions about the relationship between East and West Malaysia in the last 60 years since Malaysia was formed.
The nominated titles are chosen from last year’s best-selling non-fiction titles at POPULAR and HARRIS bookstores nationwide.
The following is the list of nominees of RCA 2024 for the non-fiction category:
> Ayesha Syahira - He Found You Lost and Guided You
> Joe Samad - Unequal Partners
> Dr Ariza Mohamed - Doctor in the Dock
> Mark Trowell - Anwar Triumphs: The Ascent of Malaysia’s Tenth Prime Minister Against All Odds
> Norhafsah Hamid - Letters for the Fragile Heart
> Hijanah Hazalif - Letters from My Heart Vol 1
> Sharifah Nadirah - Oh Allah, Heal Me
> Hijanah Hazalif - Letters from My Heart Vol 2
> James Chai - Sang Kancil: A Tale about How Ordinary Malaysians Defied the Odds
> Imran Zaki - In Your Hidden Tears: Finding Hope in Despair Through Meaningful Quranic Reflections
In Imran's book, he takes the readers on a journey of finding courage and hope with the Quran when they are “drowning in the darkness”.
Motivation to authors
The success of previous winners, such as Norhafsah Hamid and Sharifah Nadirah highlights the impact of these awards on the careers of local authors.
Time to Heal by Norhafsah and Healing the Heart: Leaving Darkness for Light by Sharifah and Muhammad Anas clinched the top prize in the fiction and non-fiction categories, respectively at POPULAR -The Star RCA 2023.
The recognition and support garnered through the RCA propel these authors to new heights, inspiring them to continue producing quality non-fiction content that resonates with readers.
Read to vote
The RCA voting period, from Feb 3 to March 10, empowers readers to actively participate in shaping the literary landscape.
By casting their votes for their favourite non-fiction titles, readers contribute to the growth of the local literary industry and help in recognising the talent that lies within their own community.
The awards ceremony, set to take place on April 6 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), in conjunction with the BookFest @ Malaysia 2024, adds an element of excitement and anticipation as readers eagerly await the announcement of the winners.
Rewards to readers
As POPULAR’s initiative encourages readers to "Read to Vote, Vote to Win," it not only emphasises the importance of engagement but also offers enticing rewards.
Readers stand a chance to win POPULAR RM50 gift vouchers and a 1-year Popular e-Card membership, creating an additional incentive to participate in the voting process.
This incentive reinforces POPULAR’s commitment to creating a supportive readership that actively shapes the literary landscape.
Visit http://bookfest.popular.com.my/?l=12 and vote for your three favourite titles in non-fiction category for the POPULAR-The Star RCA 2024. To know more about POPULAR and its special deals, visit https://www.popular.com.my/.
