Writers’ association chief supports proposal to establish publishing foundation

KUCHING (Aug 14): The Sarawak Writers Association (Perpes) president Awang Zaidel Awang Jamil has expressed support for the proposal to establish a foundation dedicated to publishing, hoping that it will address the challenges of publishing books in the state.

He made these remarks when speaking to reporters after a courtesy call to Yang di-Pertua Sarawak Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.

Awang Zaidel said the idea was suggested by Wan Junaidi during the visit, as the Head of State also recognised the current challenges and needs for Sarawakian writers to publish their written work.

“When it comes to publishing books, there are additional challenges such as funding and other constraints.

“Even gaining access to official publishers like Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka, the Malaysian Institute of Translation and Books, and Utusan Publications and Distributors involves specific regulations that often lead to lengthy delays,” said Awang Zaidel.

Moreover, during the visit Wan Junaidi had proposed to Perpes to engage with other writers associations to discuss and form a solution to streamline the challenges of book publishing in Sarawak, with an end goal of establishing a publishing foundation for the state.

Among those present were Perpes deputy presidents Dr Abang Feizal Abang Ibrahim and Ali Hossen Abang.