Book and Jawi carnival in Terengganu expected to attract 50,000 visitors with exhibitions, workshops and author sessions
KUALA TERENGGANU: Books, knowledge and Jawi heritage take centre stage at the Book and Semarak Jawi Carnival 2026, which is expected to attract 50,000 visitors during its eight-day run at the Terengganu State Public Library Corporation (PPAT) here.
Ministry of National Unity secretary-general Datuk Haslina Abdul Hamid said the programme, organised by the ministry through the National Library of Malaysia (PNM) in collaboration with PPAT, serves as a community platform combining knowledge, culture, arts, heritage, education and community services in an open and inclusive setting.
She said the carnival provides an opportunity for the public to access quality reading materials, expand their collections and encourage a reading culture among children, families and the local community.
“The book carnival concept is significant as we want to bring books and knowledge beyond spaces perceived as formal or exclusive. Books should be part of everyday life, whether at home, schools, libraries, cafés, public spaces or digital platforms.
“The programme features various activities, including book exhibitions and sales, author sessions, ‘My Favourite Read’, and the forum ‘Screen vs Page: The Evolution of Reading in the Digital Generation’, aimed at making books more accessible, engaging and meaningful to the community,” she said at the opening of the carnival here today.
Haslina said the Semarak Jawi 2026 Carnival, held as part of the programme, also aims to promote appreciation for Jawi script as a valuable national heritage and civilisational treasure.
“Semarak Jawi Carnival is a signature programme by PNM that has been held since 2011. This year’s edition in Terengganu marks its 11th edition, reflecting PNM’s continuous efforts to preserve, promote and adapt Jawi through current educational approaches,” she said.
She said the carnival adopts an edutainment approach through activities such as Si Cilik Cerdas Jawi, Klinik Dr Jawi Workshop, Pencak Aksara Jawi, Kahoot Jawi Challenge, Jawi colouring competitions and calligraphy exhibitions.
“These activities not only build skills but also make Jawi learning more enjoyable, interactive and accessible to all age groups.
“Terengganu has a rich intellectual history, including the contributions of scholars such as Tok Pulau Manis, who is highlighted through a special discourse during the programme. This shows that heritage must continue to be preserved through knowledge, storytelling, documentation and appreciation by younger generations,” she said.
Haslina called on Terengganu residents, including parents, teachers, students, youths, civil servants and visitors from neighbouring states, to attend the carnival.
The programme reflects the commitment of the National Unity Ministry and PNM to strengthening reading culture as a foundation for building a knowledgeable, inclusive and united society.
