Sarawak Literature Festival powerful reading culture, new writer born

MIRI, 24 September: A new generation of writers must expand the culture of reading and bring Sarawak's work internationally through a platform that empowers talented writers.
document the literary treasures and strengthen the state's literary ecosystem.

Sarawak Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said literature and reading culture are important in shaping a society that is capable of critical thinking, understanding technology and maintaining its own values and identity.

He said that the development of Sarawak is not only dependent on physical infrastructure but also requires intellectual development through science, reading and production of works.

"Technology doesn't transform people by itself, humans will", he said.

He said this while reading the text of Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg's speech at the inauguration of Sarawak Literature Festival 2026 at the Miri Closed Stadium, here today.

He added that more Sarawak writers should be given the opportunity to produce authentic works, while aboriginal literary treasures should continue to be documented and introduced to the world.

"If we don't write our own stories, others might write them for us", he said.

He explained that the selection of Miri as a festival location was very significant given that the city has a diversity of societies and cultures which can be a source for more literary works.

He said Miri's aspiration to join the UNESCO Creative Cities Network in literature should be supported by a strong ecosystem involving writers, publishers, libraries, educational institutions, cultural organizations and communities.

"International recognition is not just a name. What's more important is building an ecosystem that this aspiration means. A literary city needs writers and readers", he said.

He added that literature also has economic potential through publishing, translation, audiovisual adaptations, animation, digital games, education and tourism. - TVS