While digital content seems ubiquitous, printed material still hold sway among youth.
PETALING JAYA: In an age dominated by fastscrolling feeds and bite-sized content, reading in Malaysia is not disappearing but evolving.
From young writers to editors and avid readers, many say storytelling is taking on new forms rather than fading away. At just 12 years old, budding author Avril Herng believes her generation is not reading less, but differently.
“In my opinion, we are reading differently. Books haven’t lost their appeal, they’ve just slipped into other forms such as short content, fanfiction and web novels.”
Herng added that while social media has shortened attention spans, it has also become a powerful tool for discovering stories.
“I think social media is a double-edged sword. It has made storytelling fast and visual, which makes slower reading feel harder.
“But at the same time, platforms have revived books by acting as a modern form of word-of-mouth,” she said.
Rather than competing with books, Herng sees digital platforms as co-existing with them.
“Social media can be a distraction, but it can also be a doorway. It just depends on how we use it.”
She also said reading played a central role in shaping her journey as a writer.
“Reading taught me how emotion, voice and even the smallest details can make something unforgettable,” she said, adding that it was the lingering feeling of finishing a story that inspired her to start creating her own.
She emphasised the importance of relatable and diverse storytelling for young audiences today.
“Young readers want stories that feel real to them, but they are also open to new perspectives. That balance is very important in my writing.”
In conjunction with World Book Day yesterday, Herng encouraged young Malaysians to embrace reading at their own pace.
“In a world that moves so quickly, reading gives you the rare chance to slow down and truly feel something deeply. Just find stories that speak to your heart.”
Her sister, Vanessa Y.X. Ng, 18, who works as an editor, shares a similar view, describing Malaysia’s reading culture as one that is evolving rather than declining.
“Reading today goes beyond physical books. It includes articles, e-books, social media posts and even captions.
“While traditional habits may seem less visible, people are engaging with a wider range of content,” she said, while acknowledging that the rise of visually driven platforms presents new challenges for the industry.
“One of the biggest challenges is keeping readers engaged with text in a world dominated by fast-paced, highly visual content.
“There is also a growing expectation for immediacy, in which readers prefer quick, digestible material.” Despite this, Ng believes printed books remain relevant.
“Many people still value the experience of reading a physical book. It offers better focus, less distraction and a sense of permanence and credibility.”
She added that World Book Day continues to play an important role in promoting reading, especially among young audiences.
“To make it more meaningful, it needs to be interactive and relatable, through school activities and content that connects with their interests.”
Primary school teacher Aisyah Rahman, 28, describes herself as an avid reader who makes time for books despite digital distractions.
“Reading helps me unwind and think critically. I try to finish at least one book a month,” she said, adding that she prefers physical books for their immersive experience.
She believes reading remains essential in today’s fast-paced world as “it builds focus and empathy”.
“I don’t think Malaysians read enough, many prefer short-form content because it’s quicker and more entertaining.”
Aisyah hopes initiatives such as book clubs and better access to libraries could encourage more people to read.
Meanwhile, university student Jason Lim, 22, represents a growing group who have drifted away from reading.
“I used to enjoy reading, especially fiction, but I’ve kind of stopped. Now, I spend more time on social media, it’s just more convenient.”
While he still believes reading is important, he said it is no longer a priority.
“Everything is digital and fast-paced now. Young people are more into videos and short content.” Lim added that he might return to reading if materials were more engaging or tailored to his interests.
“Maybe shorter books or better recommendations would help.