A Mall-Sized OBCZ in Malaysia

We recently heard from 1 Utama, one of the largest shopping centres in Malaysia. The fine folks there love the BookCrossing concept. They've decided to make a section of the mall an official BookCrossing Zone (OBCZ). Their aim is to both encourage the culture of reading and to increase awareness of BookCrossing among Malaysians. MPH Bookstores, is now a part of this venture, providing 50 books (new releases) to be released at the Zone complete with cozy furniture, bookcases, lamps and sofas. “We are extremely excited to be part of BookCrossing, and this is a small role on the part of MPH to support the government's continuous efforts to cultivate and promote reading habits among Malaysians,” explained Dato’ Ng Tieh Chuan, Chief Executive Officer of MPH Group of Companies Malaysia.


1 Utama is telling shoppers about BookCrossing via posters, flyers, emails and media announcements. Ballycumber, the BookCrossing running book logo has taken prominence in all the communication materials. Mall foot traffic has been an estimated 2.16 million visitors a month. Heather Pedersen, BookCrossing Co-Founder said about the project, "We are thrilled to grow BookCrossing's community in Malaysia. Through this partnership, BookCrossing continues to build its global vision of providing local communities with a forum and platform for book sharing. Together we can help shape a better world through literacy." And we're sure the over 2,000 BookCrossers in Malaysia will agree.