THE role of libraries must evolve under the Madani framework to develop a sophisticated and cultured society, Bandar Tun Razak MP Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail said.

To address future challenges related to technological developments, she said libraries must focus on educating the young generation on sustainability and digital literacy.

“Libraries must also have environments and infrastructure that stimulate creativity.

“It will be able to foster the development of more advanced systems, products, ideas and processes and ultimately transform the nation or society from passive consumers to active contributors to the national economy,” she said at the opening of Pustaka KL Digital Madani@Bandar Sri Permaisuri in Cheras today.

Wan Azizah said the programme was the third Malaysian Resources Corporation Berhad (MRCB) social responsibility project for the Kuala Lumpur City Hall.

Previously, MRCB built conventional libraries in Lembah Pantai in 2015 and in Medan Idaman in 2017.

“I believe the KL Digital Madani library will provide the public, especially the residents of Bandar Sri Permaisuri, the opportunity to access reading materials and conduct various activities online in addition to physical activities such as workshops, lectures and computer classes.

“I also see this as having great potential for businesses, private companies, civil society groups and volunteers to partner with the library to conduct community programmes that indirectly support the government’s efforts towards a Madani society,” Wan Azizah said.

Kuala Lumpur Mayor Kamarulzaman Mat Salleh said more than 1,000 people have visited the new library since it opened on October 17, with 260 of them registering as members. – Bernama, October 31, 2023.