In a world obsessed with the fleeting, there is something profoundly sophisticated about the enduring power of a book. This April, Kuala Lumpur transforms into a high-fashion sanctuary for the mind as KOTA BACA 2026 takes over the iconic Dataran Merdeka.
Curated by Perbadanan Kota Buku (PKB) under the Ministry of Education Malaysia, KOTA BACA 2026 is a national movement aligned with the Malaysia MADANI agenda — merging physical spectacle with digital innovation to shape a society that is both informed and effortlessly chic.
The festivities ignite on 23 April at the KL Library, but the true pulse of the event beats from 24 to 26 April at Dataran Merdeka. For the sartorially inclined, the BukaBuku by Keretapi Sarong on Saturday afternoon offers a whimsical nod to heritage. As night falls, the atmosphere shifts to the historic, as thousands gather for the Largest Book Exchange Event in Southeast Asia—a poetic exchange of ideas under the city lights.
From the high-energy 5KM Book Character Run to intimate Meet & Greets with Aisha Retno and National Laureates, the itinerary is is packed with excitement. Between sessions, retreat to the Coffee and Book Café or explore the AI Smart Hub to see how technology is reshaping our narratives.
Your Essential KOTA BACA 2026 Pocket Guide
Entry: Free to the Public
| Date | Time | Highlight Programme |
|---|---|---|
| 23 April | 10:00 AM | The Grand Opening: National World Book Day Celebration (KL Library) |
| 24 April | All Day | Luxe Literacy: Kelah Buku (Picnic Area) & Coffee and Book Café |
| 25 April | 4:00 PM | BukaBuku by Keretapi Sarong: A heritage-themed reading walk |
| 5:00 PM | Celebrity Spotting: Meet & Greet with Aisha Retno | |
| 8:00 PM | The Main Event: Launch of KOTA BACA & Largest Book Exchange |
|
| 26 April | 7:00 AM | 5KM Character Run: Run the streets as your favorite literary icon |
| 2:00 PM | Family Fun: Meet & Greet with Didi & Friends | |
| 8:00 PM | Closing: PENA Poetry Night “Gemuruh Puisi” |
Tip: Don’t forget to bring your Kota Baca Passport to every booth! Collect stamps as you shop for exclusives — and if your bags get too heavy, utilize the TikTok Shop partner booths for free delivery straight to your doorstep.
Join the movement in making Malaysia a true reading nation — let’s build a knowledgeable society together.
For more information, visit the official KOTA BACA 2026 website, or follow its Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.
Read also: Where KL Comes Alive: Inside The Exchange TRX’s Month-Long Arts & Music Festival
