Another One For the Books: BookFest @ Malaysia 2026 Continues Inspiring Readers with Stories & Exciting Rewards

BookFest @ Malaysia is back in 2026, marking a milestone as it celebrates its 20th Anniversary of championing books, knowledge and a thriving reading culture. Taking place from 18 to 26 March at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), this year’s edition promises a meaningful celebration that reflects BookFest @ Malaysia’s enduring impact on generations of readers.

Anchored by the theme “Read 20, Rise Beyond”, BookFest @ Malaysia 2026 celebrates the transformative power of reading and the remarkable journey the festival has taken over the past 20 years. Since its inception, BookFest @ Malaysia has grown into one of Malaysia’s most anticipated literary events, bringing together readers, authors, publishers and communities through a shared passion for books and storytelling. As the festival celebrates this milestone, visitors are invited to reflect on how reading shapes perspectives, inspires growth and connects people across generations—while looking forward to greater stories and possibilities beyond the ordinary.

Spanning an impressive 100,000 sq ft, BookFest @ Malaysia 2026 invites visitors to explore Halls 1–5 of KLCC, where every corner brims with exciting discovery and boundless inspiration. Distinguished by its recognition from the Malaysia Book of Records in 2016 as the nation’s largest trilingual book exposition, the event continues to stand as a prestigious hallmark for readers and knowledge seekers alike. This year’s event promises an immersive and thoughtfully curated experience. Halls 1 and 2 will feature a diverse range of Chinese books, assessments, and CDs, DVDs, IP products and collectibles, while Halls 4 and 5 will showcase an extensive collection of English and Malay books, complemented by an exciting array of stationery, and gadgets & IT products, along with a variety of titbits for visitors to enjoy.

BookFest @ Malaysia is more than just a book fair. It’s an experience! Visitors can expect a range of entertaining and engaging activities throughout the 9-day period, including Local and Overseas Author-Sharing Sessions, Live Orchestra, Children’s Choir Competition, Chinese Storytelling Competition, Children’s Colouring Competition, Anime & Comic Cosplay Competition, Cooking Demos by well-known chefs, Art & Crafts workshops, and more!

BookFest 20th Anniversary – Live Orchestra: A Symphony of Eras

To mark its milestone, BookFest @ Malaysia 2026 presents a special Live Orchestra Concert on 23 March at 3.00pm at the KLCC Convention Centre, Conference Halls 1–3 (Level 3). The orchestra will feature 26 musical instruments played under the direction of a conductor, and performed by members of the Persatuan Bunyi-Bunyian Shin Yun, a distinguished ensemble celebrated for their seamless fusion of traditional Chinese music with contemporary orchestral arrangements. Audiences will enjoy a curated selection of iconic songs from the 1980s to 2000s, complemented by special guest appearances by Priscilla Abby and Fuying & Sam, promising an immersive musical experience for all generations. Tickets are priced at RM60 nett and available at selected POPULAR/HARRIS bookstores and POPULAR Online.

Amazing deals you can’t miss!

Experience feel-good deals throughout BookFest @ Malaysia 2026 as we deliver you special offers that are “beyond imagination”!

BookFest rewards YOU!

Get ready to make your shopping even more rewarding:

As an added bonus, members who present the “Exclusive for POPULAR Members” leaflet together with their membership card at the Ticket Counter will receive two complimentary entry tickets and a RM10 Instant Rebate Voucher, redeemable at BookFest @ Malaysia with a minimum spend of RM199nett.

“Read 20, Rise Beyond” Event & Activities

Immerse yourself in a world of fun and excitement with specially curated events at BookFest @ Malaysia this year!

Alongside them are renowned authors from Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, including:

Additionally, don’t miss our thematic talks by renowned Malaysian Chinese writers, offering unique perspectives on literature, culture, and storytelling. Join them at the Main Stage @ Hall 1 or the Hospitality Lounge 1 for engaging meet-and-greet sessions conducted in Chinese, celebrating the creativity and voices of Malaysia’s Chinese literary community.

BookFest @ Malaysia Guidebook

Discover your passion and indulge in it! Don’t miss the opportunity to visit POPULAR bookstores in Klang Valley and purchase the BookFest @ Malaysia guidebook. It will assist you in planning your ultimate shopping adventure! Available at a price of RM2.50, the guidebook also serves as an entry ticket. Alternatively, you can opt for the RM10 season pass for unlimited access throughout the entire 9-day duration. BookFest @ Malaysia 2026 will be open daily from 10.00am to 10.00pm, so brace yourself for a spectacular experience at KLCC with a wide array of offerings tailored to suit everyone’s interests.

As BookFest @ Malaysia turns the page toward its 20 remarkable years, readers are invited to rise beyond the ordinary and rediscover the joy and power of reading, happening at KLCC from 18 – 26 March. For more information, visit their website.

Also read: Study: More Than One in Four of Malaysian Students Do Not Read for Leisure