Selangor: The Selangor Children's Literature Festival, scheduled from August 28 to 31, is designed to help parents curb gadget addiction among children by promoting reading habits and involving them in interactive physical activities.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Selangor Public Library Corporation (PPAS) director Datin Mastura Muhamad highlighted that this inaugural festival marks a shift from traditional book fairs to a more inclusive community-oriented platform. The initiative responds to rising concerns about children's increasing reliance on mobile phones, urging swift action to create safer spaces and alternatives.

Mastura noted the challenges faced by many young parents who often resort to mobile phones to pacify children during meals or religious events. She stressed the importance of government intervention in providing safe and supportive environments where parents and children can learn, interact, and spend quality time together. Her remarks were delivered at the Raja Tun Uda Library Auditorium.

The festival is set to take place at the Shah Alam Convention Centre (SACC) and SA Central, featuring batik art as its central theme. This theme aims to instill an appreciation for Malaysia's cultural heritage in children from an early age. Open exhibition tables will replace high partitions to create a more child-friendly atmosphere. Planned activities include folk tale storytelling sessions featuring characters like Naga Tasik Chini and Si Tanggang, a maze, cosplay performances, and the Gaza Children's Run for charity.

Additionally, the festival will offer a special seminar area for parents, with sessions on parenting, financial planning, and the latest in arts and literacy. Mastura urged local publishers to capitalize on the event to further develop the children's literature market, inspired by the sector's potential observed at the Frankfurt International Book Fair.

Efforts are underway to make the festival inclusive by involving agencies and organizations that support children with special needs, ensuring participation from diverse backgrounds. Mastura expressed hope that more publishers would contribute books that inspire and shape young minds.