Indie book publisher disagrees with new BB1M guidelines

An Indie book publisher disagrees with the guidelines set by the Education Ministry of only allowing the 1Malaysia Book (BB1M) voucher to be used for the purchase of academic books, journals and magazines.

SeLUT press owner, Aloy Paradoks says that this indirectly stunts the government’s effort in cultivating the reading culture.

“I still disagree. This has stunted the government's effort of inculcating the reading culture. Reading academic materials is not a culture but a necessity for exams,” said Aloy.

He added that in order to become a wise community, readers should be able to read any materials.

When asked if this guideline would affect the sales of indie books, Aloy said that they had their own readership.

Meanwhile, Dewan Sastera author Fadli Al-Akiti said he refuses to be involved however is of the opinion that the guideline is able to open the eyes of all quarters towards the various reading material available.

He welcomes the interest shown by the younger generation for reading but finds that they would be more inclined to read lighter materials.

“In my opinion, the younger generation is interested in reading, especially novels published by indie publishers. There are many new available books in the market. I am not questioning the quality as each has its own definition. What is for sure is that their interest in these novels.

“However there are also novels published by the Dewan bahasa and Pustaka and the Malaysia Books & Translation Institute. These novels are infused with facts, information and god values,” said Fadli.

He added that the guideline had its own pros and cons.

“I am curious as to how a literature student would purchase the various types of books needed if none of it falls in the scientific genre.

“The voucher had earlier allowed students to purchase writing equipments and papers which had no connection to knowledge. This indirectly reduces a student’s burden," said Fadli.

According to Bernama, KPM had streamlined the guidelines on the issuance of BB1M effective May 1, 2014 by only allowing the voucher to be used for the purchase of academic books, journals and magazines.