Let’s celebrate Reading City 2026 in Merdeka Square! A variety of interesting activities await you and your family, from book exhibitions, knowledge sharing sessions to interactive and relaxing programs that will definitely excite book lovers. Visit the 2026 Reading City Portal to get the latest information.
Don’t miss the opportunity to jointly encourage a reading culture and make knowledge a lifestyle.
What is Reading City 2026?
Reading City 2026 is a national level event held simultaneously World Book & Copyright Day (UNESCO) which is celebrated every April 23. This program aims to improve the culture of reading as a social norm and lifestyle of Malaysian society.
With approach hybridReading City 2026 combines a digital launch and a large-scale physical program in Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur.
This is a strategic basis for giving birth to generations Malaysian CIVIL knowledgeable, civilized and skilled.
Reading City Objectives 2026
Reading City 2026 is recommended to be in line with several key state policies, including:
- Malaysian CIVIL – supports the development of highly knowledgeable human resources
- Basic State Education – empowering literacy in the education system
- Basic State Books – strengthening the book industry and access to reading materials
- UNESCO Commitment – celebrating World Book & Copyright Day
Additionally, the program also emphasizes:
- Institutionalization of knowledge culture as a national agenda
- Democratization of knowledge through open access to books
- Program sustainability high impact and inclusive
Date & Time
📅 April 24 to 26, 2026
📍 Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur
In addition to physical programs, digital events also take place on:
📅 April 23, 2026 (Online)
event schedule
APRIL 24, 2026, FRIDAY
APRIL 25, 2026, SATURDAY
APRIL 26, 2026, SUNDAY
Reading City Main Program 2026
Among the main programs that attract visitors:
1. Launch of Reading City 2026
Symbol of Malaysia’s reading culture agenda “In This City, Everyone Reads”
2. BUKABOOK by Sarong Railway
A collaborative initiative that combines Malaysian identity through culture and heritage, to foster a passion for reading in a unique setting.
3. The Largest Book Exchange in Southeast Asia
The iconic Reading City event that brings together people in a massive book exchange movement.
A symbol of knowledge sharing, public engagement and Malaysia’s regional aspirations.
4. Book Character Run
5KM run with a creative concept where participants wear costumes of favorite book characters. Further information.
5. Friday Sermon
Spiritual fulfillment through Friday sermons that emphasize the importance of knowledge and the culture of reading in mosques around the Federal Territory.
6. Book Club
Community space to read, discuss and share views in a relaxed manner.
7. Theater performance by the Malaysian Arts School
The theater performance, which combines various elements to draw out the important values of the reading aspect, is supervised by the Department of Sports, Curriculum and Arts, Ministry of Education and Culture.
Interesting Activities in Reading City 2026
Various interesting activities await visitors throughout the program, including:
- Statesman’s Speech
- Theatrical performance by the Malaysian Arts School
- Coffee & Book Cafe
- People’s Book Sales Rack (100 shelves)
- OKU Zone & Book Access
- Baca City Passport (Collect stamps at reruai)
- Integration of Books & AI Technology
This program is expected to attract up to 100,000 visitors from all over the country.
Reading City Pocket Event 2026
In addition to the main program, there are also various ones pocket event more relaxed and interactive:
- Audio Book Broadcast (Podcast) at Kuala Lumpur Library
- Stars & Stories with celebrities
- National Literary Friendship Meeting
- Writer’s Meet & Meet
- Nadir/Rare Books & Book Art Exhibition
- Book Chat & public discussions
- AI Smart Stop
- Book Donation Station
- Jawi Empowerment Program (DBP)
- Thunder In Poetry
This pocket event provides a closer experience between readers, writers and the community.
Why Should You Attend?
Reading City 2026 is not just a book festival, but a national movement to:
- Encourage a reading culture
- Build an active community of readers
- Bringing science closer to society
- Make reading a lifestyle
Easy Tips for Getting to Reading City 2026
For a more comfortable experience, wear appropriate clothing and shoes, and bring a hat, umbrella, or hand fan for the elements.
Visitors are also encouraged to use public transportation such as Jamek Mosque LRT, Pasar Seni MRT or City LRT which is located close to the event location.
Throughout your journey, practice ethical behavior such as queuing, maintaining cleanliness, and respecting other users.
Further information
To find out more information about Reading City 2026, you can see the following information:
Reading City 2026 FAQ
Reading City 2026 is a national level event held in conjunction with World Book & Copyright Day (UNESCO) to foster a culture of reading as a lifestyle for Malaysian people.
This program will take place from 24 to 26 April 2026 at Darat Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur. Apart from that, digital activities will also be held on April 23 2026.
The 2026 Reading City physical event was held at Darat Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur.
Most activities are free and open to the public, but certain programs may require advance registration.
All levels of society are invited to attend, from students, families, book lovers, to the general public.
The main activities include:
BUKABUKU by Keretapi Sarong
The Biggest Book Exchange Event in Southeast Asia
Book Character Run
Book Fair & Book Talk
Theater shows, podcasts and more
This is a large-scale book exchange event that allows people to share reading materials and supports a culture of knowledge sharing.
A 5KM run that combines a healthy lifestyle with creativity, where participants are encouraged to wear costumes of their favorite book characters.
Yes, there are various child-friendly activities such as reading sessions with celebrities (Stars & Stories), theater and interactive activities.
Yes, there is a Disability & Book Access Zone to ensure this program is inclusive and can be enjoyed by everyone.
Baca City Passport is a special initiative where visitors can collect stamps at each kiosk as a sign of participation in the activity.
Yes, there are more than 100 bookstores that offer a wide selection of reading materials.
Yes, Reading City 2026 also has digital components such as online book sales, the #BookTokMalaysia challenge, and the launch of national literacy data.
Because, it is not just a book festival, but a national movement to encourage a reading culture, build a knowledgeable community, and make reading a lifestyle.
Also read: Book Festival 2026 (Malaysia & International) – Date & Location
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