By Siti Rohaizah Zainal
KUALA LUMPUR, June 1 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has hailed Selangor for publishing the highest number of scholarly works.
He said this is in line with the knowledge-loving Madani culture, and could encourage reading among youth.
“A love for knowledge can shape good attitudes and personalities. I want to thank not only the Higher Education Ministry and the Education Ministry, but also (Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri) Amirudin (Shari).
“Selangor is the only state producing much scholarly works, I just hope to receive some before they go to the book fairs,” he quipped.
Anwar was speaking during the closing ceremony of the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur.
Besides Amirudin, also present were Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek and Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir.
Anwar also announced that book vouchers, previously reserved only for students, would be distributed to 400,000 teachers this year.
“We take care of the schools and the teachers, so this year, all teachers will receive book vouchers, but we will see how it is next year. For universities, we have handed over (the vouchers) to the Higher Education Ministry.
“Hopefully, the book vouchers can help teachers do their duty and encourage children to read,” Anwar added.
