KUALA LUMPUR, May 30 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has warned that social media is eroding reading habits and replacing knowledge with short bursts of information.
Describing the trend as “dangerous” for society. Speaking at the launch of the 2026 National Book Fair, he urged parents, teachers and schools to cultivate a stronger reading culture among young Malaysians.
At the same event, Anwar said budget cuts to the Education Ministry were unavoidable as the government responds to economic pressures.
Caused by rising global energy costs and Middle East tensions. However, he stressed that savings would come from non-critical spending.
And would not affect the quality of education or access to schools and universities. He also confirmed that the RM100 Madani Book Voucher programme would continue to support reading among students.
