PHNOM PENH: The organiser of the 11th Cambodia Book Fair is urging attendees to purchase more books during the event scheduled for December 19-22, with the aim of promoting reading and authorship. Secretary of State at the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, H.E. Kim Pinun, made this appeal during a press conference on December 11.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the organiser has observed a rise in visitors to past book fairs but hopes to see a corresponding increase in book purchases this year. The event, under the motto “Reader and Learner for Life,” will be hosted at the Koh Pich Convention and Exhibition Centre in Phnom Penh, providing ample space for the expected surge in visitors.

The fair aims to promote both new and classic publications, encouraging Cambodians, particularly children and youth, to cultivate a reading habit and appreciate its value for personal and societal development. Vice Chair of the Book Fair Organising Committee, Mr. Sok Rithy, noted that there will be books available for
giveaway and purchase at discounted rates.

The number of book stalls at the fair has been expanded to 292, in addition to 20 stalls designated for food and beverage sales. The previous edition of the book fair in 2023 attracted 200,000 visitors, indicating a growing interest in the event.