For all book lovers across Malaysia, there’s an exciting reason to get your reading lists ready and your opinions counted. POPULAR Malaysia, a household name for book enthusiasts, is bringing back its highly anticipated annual awards: the POPULAR – The Star Readers’ Choice Awards and POPULAR – BH Anugerah Pilihan Pembaca 2026. These awards celebrate the very best in both English and Malay literature, across fiction and non-fiction categories. And the best part? You get to vote for your favourites and stand a chance to win amazing prizes.
From 16 January to 22 February 2026, readers are invited to select their top three favourite titles in both English and Malay books. Whether your heart beats faster for gripping fiction novels, thought-provoking non-fiction, or delightful children’s books, this is your opportunity to make your voice heard and influence which titles take home the crown. It’s not just about supporting your favourite authors—it’s about being part of a nationwide celebration of reading culture.
Voting is incredibly straightforward. Simply head over to http://bookfest.popular.com.my/?l=3, browse through the nominated titles in the respective categories, and pick your top three choices. That’s it. The process is quick, and in doing so, you’re not only showing your support for the authors you love but also helping fellow readers discover new books that deserve attention.
One of the most exciting aspects of participating in these awards is the chance to win rewards while doing something you already enjoy—reading and sharing your thoughts. Every voter is eligible to win a RM50 POPULAR Gift Voucher. Imagine walking into any POPULAR bookstore across Malaysia and selecting new releases, bestsellers, or even those rare titles you’ve been eyeing, all covered by this voucher. On top of that, participants also have the chance to receive a 1-year POPULAR e-Card membership, giving you exclusive access to e-books, digital services, and special promotions throughout the year.
This initiative by POPULAR isn’t just about giving away prizes—it’s a celebration of literacy, creativity, and the vibrant reading culture in Malaysia. The awards bring together readers from all walks of life, encouraging them to participate in the selection process. Unlike some awards decided solely by a panel of judges, these awards are democratically determined by readers themselves. This makes the competition particularly special because the winners truly reflect what Malaysian readers are loving right now.
So why should readers participate? First, it’s a fun way to engage with the books they enjoy. Many readers discover new titles just by browsing the nominated lists. Some might even revisit books they read years ago and realise they still hold a special place in their hearts. Second, by voting, readers contribute to supporting authors who work tirelessly to craft stories, ideas, and knowledge. In today’s world, where reading competes with countless digital distractions, acknowledging great work is meaningful and rewarding. Third, it’s an opportunity to win something while promoting literacy and a love for books.
If you’re the type who enjoys a little friendly competition, you’ll also appreciate seeing which titles top the charts as voting progresses. It adds an extra layer of excitement, knowing your choices could sway the results. Whether you’re a fan of fiction or non-fiction, young adult novels or classic literature, every vote counts. This is also a wonderful opportunity for families, schools, and reading groups to encourage participation together. Imagine having discussions about your favourite titles, debating which stories deserve recognition, and then casting your votes collectively. It turns reading into a social activity, which is a rare and valuable experience in our increasingly digital world.
Another highlight is the inclusive nature of these awards. With categories covering both English and Malay books, everyone has a chance to participate regardless of their preferred language. This inclusivity ensures that Malaysia’s diverse literary landscape is well-represented and that authors writing in different languages receive the recognition they deserve.
Participating in this initiative is also extremely accessible. Voting is online, so whether you’re at home, commuting, or on a lunch break, you can easily cast your votes. All it takes is a few minutes of your time. With the deadline set for 22 February 2026, there’s plenty of time to read, review, and decide on your top picks.
For those who love the thrill of winning, the RM50 POPULAR Gift Voucher and the 1-year POPULAR e-Card membership are excellent incentives. Even if you don’t win, participating gives you the satisfaction of being part of a nationwide literary movement. The e-Card membership, in particular, provides an excellent way to explore the digital side of reading. With more readers shifting towards e-books, having access to a digital library can make it easier to enjoy your favourite books anywhere and at any time.
From an educational standpoint, these awards also serve as a guide for readers unsure of what to pick next. Seeing which books are frequently voted for can help readers identify quality titles and discover hidden gems. It’s like getting a curated recommendation list created by thousands of fellow readers across Malaysia.
POPULAR Malaysia has always been a pioneer in promoting reading habits in the country. Through events like these, they make books more engaging and accessible, not just by offering sales and promotions but also by encouraging active participation in literary culture. Their dedication to supporting authors and fostering a love of reading is evident in the way they structure these awards and make them inclusive and rewarding for everyone involved.
In conclusion, the POPULAR – The Star Readers’ Choice Awards and POPULAR – BH Anugerah Pilihan Pembaca 2026 aren’t just awards—they’re a celebration of Malaysian readers and authors alike. By participating, readers can make their voices heard, influence the outcomes, discover new books, and potentially win valuable rewards. The period from 16 January to 22 February 2026 is your chance to engage in this exciting event. Whether you’re a lifelong reader, a casual book lover, or someone looking to get back into reading, this is an event worth taking part in.
So, mark your calendars, browse the nominations, and vote for your top three favourite books. Not only will you contribute to the recognition of deserving authors, but you could also walk away with vouchers and an e-Card membership to continue your reading journey.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to celebrate reading in Malaysia and have your say in which books reign supreme. Vote now at http://bookfest.popular.com.my/?l=3. The winners of the awards might surprise you, and the journey of exploring the nominated books will be an enjoyable one. Happy voting, and may your favourite books take the crown!
Promotional/Event Details:
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Date: 16 January–22 February 2026
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Time: All day, online voting available 24/7
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Venue: Online – http://bookfest.popular.com.my/?l=3
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