Sarawak’s publishing sector is a cornerstone of cultural preservation, serving as an essential medium for showcasing the state’s vast traditions and vibrant historical records.
However, despite its crucial role in safeguarding heritage, the industry has yet to realise its full potential.
According to the National Library of Malaysia, Sarawak contributes just approximately 350 book titles annually, a figure that is markedly below the national goal of 2,800 titles.
This gap in Sarawak’s publishing output represents a unique chance for the younger generation to reshape and invigorate the industry.
Although cultural and educational literature has been central to its identity, exploring new genres could broaden Sarawak’s reach and influence in the national and global literary arenas.
Revisiting Sarawak’s Publishing Landscape
Sarawak’s publishing industry has historically concentrated on producing works centred on its culture, history, and education.
While these are vital for preserving identity, they only scratch the surface of what publishing can encompass.
In contrast, West Malaysia boasts a vibrant and diverse publishing landscape, with popular fiction genres such as urban and young adult novels in Bahasa Malaysia thriving.
Notably, publishers like Buku Fixi have excelled in capitalizing on these markets.
In the ASEAN region, Indonesia and the Philippines have carved a niche in the romance, fantasy, and thriller genres.
In contrast, internationally, the publishing powerhouses of the United States, the United Kingdom, and Japan generate millions of titles each year.
In 2024, UNESCO reported that the US and China, as global publishing leaders, released hundreds of thousands of titles annually, with Japan accounting for roughly 139,078 titles.
By concentrating on a limited range of genres, Sarawak’s publishing industry risks sidelining its literary impact.
Expanding genres should not be seen as a loss of cultural integrity but as a means of enriching it, fusing tradition with contemporary narratives to engage a broader spectrum of readers.
What is Traditional Publishing?
Traditional publishing refers to a system where a publishing house oversees the entire book production, distribution, and marketing process.
This process involves acquiring manuscripts, refining them through editing and design, and managing the costs of printing and distribution.
Unlike self-publishing, where authors manage these steps themselves, traditional publishers serve as gatekeepers of literary quality, enhancing the credibility and reach of published works.
This approach continues to dominate the global publishing landscape, providing authors with structured opportunities while enabling publishers to uphold rigorous editorial standards and extensive distribution channels.
For Sarawakian youth, embracing this method could lay the foundation for a dynamic and diverse publishing sector.
Why Youth Should Launch a Traditional Publishing House
A traditional publishing house offers more than just a career; it’s a platform to celebrate and amplify storytelling.
Sarawak’s rich tapestry of over 30 ethnic groups and numerous languages holds an abundance of untold stories.
By embracing formats like fantasy, YA fiction, and graphic memoirs, young publishers can transform these stories into works that connect with audiences across time and cultures.
Despite the growing popularity of e-books and audiobooks, the demand for print books remains robust.
According to UNESCO, roughly 2.2 million books are published worldwide each year, with the United States producing between 500,000 and 1 million titles in both print and digital formats.
The continued demand for fiction, self-help, and educational books highlights why traditional publishing remains a profitable avenue for aspiring publishers in Sarawak.
Building a publishing house contributes significantly to Sarawak’s creative economy by creating jobs in editing, illustration, marketing, and distribution.
Moreover, youth-driven initiatives ensure that local voices stand out in a market where West Malaysia publishes upwards of 5,000 titles annually, featuring top fiction.
How To Build Your Traditional Publishing House
Legal Foundations: To establish your publishing venture, register with Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia (SSM) to attain official business status.
Don’t forget to acquire ISBNs from the National Library of Malaysia, which are vital for distribution and cataloguing.
Find Your Niche: Defining a clear niche is crucial for differentiating yourself in a competitive market.
Genres like speculative fiction and young adult novels offer untapped potential to reach new audiences.
In addition, identifying your audience helps refine the focus and identity of your publishing venture.
Build Your Team: A successful publishing venture relies on collaboration among writers, editors, typesetters, and illustrators, among others.
Leverage resources like the Sarawak Writers Society, workshops, or university programs to connect with local talent.
Additionally, platforms such as Behance and LinkedIn can expand your network to include skilled professionals.
Production and Printing: Work with reliable printers for your book production needs.
Heng Sing Brothers Press in Kuching is a reliable local option for quality printing.
For cost-effective, larger print runs, you might find more affordable options in Peninsular Malaysia or nearby countries such as Indonesia or China.
Distribution and Marketing: Book distribution can be achieved by working with major bookstores such as MPH and local independent retailers.
Utilise digital platforms such as Shopee, Lazada, and Amazon for a broader audience.
Furthermore, participating in literary events like the Sarawak Book Fair and Authors Festival and the KL International Book Fair can further elevate your brand.
Support Systems for Emerging Publishers
Financial Support: Yayasan Sarawak offers grants of up to RM20,000 to support publishing projects.
Additionally, MYSED’s Youth Entrepreneurship Scheme (YES) offers mentorship and funding to empower young entrepreneurs.
Technical and Training Support: Digital publishing ventures receive support from the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC) through specialized training and funding programs.
Community and Networking: The Sarawak Writers Society organizes workshops, aids in manuscript development, and fosters essential networking opportunities for writers and creatives.
A Vision for Sarawak’s Literary Future
For young Sarawakians, founding a traditional publishing house goes beyond generating income; it’s a chance to influence the cultural narrative, uplift local voices, and strengthen the creative economy.
By embracing genre diversity, supporting their peers, and tapping into local resources, young publishers can redefine Sarawakian literature and ensure its stories reach a wider audience.
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