National unity minister Aaron Ago Dagang said reading surveys conducted since 2005 showed encouraging progress but did not fully capture Malaysians’ actual reading habits.
The average number of books read rose from two a year in 2005 to 24 in 2023, comprising 16 printed books and eight digital. The latest study also found that 88.6% of Malaysians read.
However, Aaron said these figures alone did not reveal who was reading, what they read, or how habits differed across social groups.
“Without a comprehensive index, we only see surface-level trends. The NRI will provide clear indicators and scientific methods to assess reading habits in greater depth,” he told FMT.
The NRI, to be launched next year, will allow the government to assess the effectiveness of literacy policies and design more evidence-based strategies.
It will be periodically updated to reflect changing reading patterns, with the National Library of Malaysia now finalising its development.
On par with other nations
Aaron said the NRI would place Malaysia alongside countries with established literacy benchmarks.
The United Arab Emirates has introduced an NRI that measures both digital and print reading, while Indonesia has created a Community Literacy Development Index that evaluates interest, access, and infrastructure.
In the US, the annual National Assessment of Educational Progress serves as the key literacy benchmark for shaping education policy.
“With the NRI, Malaysia is moving beyond basic surveys to an official, internationally benchmarked measurement to build a strong reading culture,” Aaron said.
New National Book Policy
He added that the national unity ministry, together with the education ministry, was finalising a new National Book Policy.
The policy, the first major revision in almost four decades, will address digital-era reading trends, the needs of younger generations, and publishing industry requirements, in line with Malaysia’s goal of creating a knowledgeable society.
Throughout October, the ministry is also running the Malaysia Reads campaign in libraries nationwide to promote reading as part of daily life.