#MalaysiaReads: How Social Media Shapes Our Book Choices

Scrolling through TikTok late one night, Aina stumbled upon a video titled “Books That Will Break You in the Best Way Possible.”

Intrigued, she clicked play.

The creator gushed about “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig, calling it a life-changing read. Within minutes, Aina was on an online bookstore, adding the novel to her cart.

She wasn’t alone—this scenario plays out every day for readers across Malaysia.

In today’s digital age, the way we discover and discuss books has undergone a transformation, thanks to social media. Social media has become the modern librarian, not just recommending books but creating communities, trends, and, yes, some serious FOMO (fear of missing out). Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter now shape the way Malaysians discover, discuss, and connect over books. But how did we get here, and what does this mean for our reading habits?

Imagine stepping into a bustling marketplace where each stall offers a glimpse into a different world—this is what social media feels like for book lovers. You’re no longer bound to the quiet confines of libraries or the limited shelves of a local bookstore. Instead, you have endless recommendations, reviews, and communities right at your fingertips. Each platform brings something unique to the table, creating a multifaceted experience where readers can explore genres, authors, and discussions like never before.

If you’re a reader in Malaysia, chances are you’ve come across #BookTok. This vibrant corner of TikTok is where bibliophiles unite to share their love for books, gush over emotional reads, and create lists like “Books That Will Destroy You Emotionally.”

Unlike traditional book clubs, which are slower and localized, #BookTok delivers recommendations at lightning speed. Videos showing raw emotional reactions or aesthetically pleasing book stacks often go viral, and Malaysian readers are increasingly joining the conversation.

In Malaysia, the #BookTok trend has contributed to the popularity of authors like Colleen Hoover and Taylor Jenkins Reid, whose works often grace the shelves of local bookstores. But it’s not just about international bestsellers. Malaysian authors like Hanna Alkaf have also found an audience through TikTok’s reach, with books like “The Weight of Our Sky” gaining traction.

The platform’s visual and emotional appeal makes it an ideal space for sharing book content, especially for younger readers who prefer quick, engaging recommendations.

While TikTok offers speed and spontaneity, Instagram’s Bookstagram community is all about curation and aesthetics. Malaysian readers and influencers use the platform to showcase their latest reads through beautifully arranged photos, often accompanied by thoughtful captions.

From flat-lay shots of books paired with coffee mugs to detailed posts discussing themes and characters, Instagram brings a sense of artistry to book recommendations.

Hashtags like #MalaysiaReads, #BukuMalaysia, and #BookstagramMalaysia allow readers to discover both international bestsellers and local treasures. Beyond recommendations, Instagram also fosters discussions. For example, a post about “Lelaki Harimau” by Eka Kurniawan could spark conversations about Southeast Asian literature in the comments.

This platform excels at creating a visual and intellectual connection to books, drawing readers into a community that celebrates both global and local literary cultures.

For those who love debates and nuanced discussions, Twitter offers a dynamic platform for literary conversations. Malaysian readers often use hashtags like #ReadingMalaysia and #BookTwitter to join or spark discussions about their favorite books.

Unlike TikTok’s fast-paced videos or Instagram’s polished visuals, Twitter thrives on the written word, making it perfect for detailed reviews, threads, and even debates.

One recent example is a thread analyzing the themes in “Bumi Manusia” by Pramoedya Ananta Toer, which garnered attention from readers across Malaysia and Indonesia. Twitter also serves as a space for authors and readers to interact directly, creating a closer bond between creators and their audiences.

This interaction often encourages more people to pick up books by local authors, further enriching Malaysia’s literary scene.

Though it may not have the trendy appeal of TikTok or Instagram, Facebook remains a valuable platform for Malaysian readers. Groups like Buku Jalanan and Buku Tepi Laut offer intimate spaces for readers to connect, discuss, and even swap books. These groups often host online and offline events, such as book swaps and discussions, fostering a deeper sense of community.

Facebook’s group functionality allows readers to explore niche interests, from fantasy novels to Malay literature. For example, a group focused on Malaysian folklore might introduce members to books like “Hikayat Raja Pasai.” While it may not create viral trends, Facebook’s focus on community ensures that readers can find meaningful connections and discover books that resonate with their unique interests.

The influence of social media on our reading choices goes beyond simple recommendations. Through viral trends, heartfelt reviews, and dynamic discussions, Malaysian readers like you, are discovering stories they might have otherwise overlooked. The choices aren’t just about picking up a bestseller; they’re about exploring new genres, supporting local authors, and even challenging societal norms through literature. This shift isn’t accidental—social media has seamlessly woven itself into the fabric of modern reading, making it more inclusive, interactive, and exciting than ever before.

Social media algorithms prioritize engagement, which often leads to specific books or genres becoming viral sensations. A single video or post can catapult a relatively unknown book to fame.

Take “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid, for example. It became a global phenomenon after gaining traction on TikTok, with Malaysian readers eagerly joining the hype. Bookstores across the country now have sections dedicated to “TikTok-famous books.”

These trends often extend beyond international titles to local literature. Malaysian readers, inspired by the visibility of books on platforms like Instagram, have helped authors like Tunku Halim and Shih-Li Kow gain recognition. By amplifying trends, social media acts as a powerful tool for shaping collective reading habits, turning niche books into household names.

Social media thrives on FOMO, and book recommendations are no exception. If everyone online is raving about a particular title, it’s hard to resist the urge to join in. This was the case for Aina and her discovery of “The Midnight Library”. The constant exposure to glowing reviews and emotional reactions can create a sense of urgency—read this now, or risk missing out on the cultural conversation.

However, this influence isn’t always positive. Readers may end up buying books that don’t align with their tastes simply because they’re trending. Balancing personal preferences with the pull of social media trends is an ongoing challenge for many Malaysian readers, but one that can be managed with thoughtful curation of one’s feed.

One of the most positive aspects of social media’s influence is its ability to spotlight diverse voices. Platforms like Twitter and Instagram have been instrumental in promoting Malaysian and Southeast Asian authors, giving them visibility on a global stage. Books like Hanna Alkaf’s “The Weight of Our Sky” and Tash Aw’s “We, The Survivors” have reached wider audiences thanks to social media campaigns and reader reviews.

This focus on diversity also extends to genres. Social media introduces readers to everything from poetry and memoirs to speculative fiction and graphic novels. For Malaysian readers, this diversity enriches the reading experience and encourages exploration of genres and perspectives that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Reading has often been seen as a solitary activity, but social media transforms it into a shared experience. Online book clubs, read-along events, and discussion threads bring readers together, fostering connections that transcend geographic boundaries. Malaysian readers frequently participate in such activities, sharing their thoughts on books and even organizing meetups to discuss them further.

These communities offer a sense of belonging, particularly for those who might not have access to traditional book clubs or literary events. Whether it’s a Facebook group dedicated to Malay novels or a TikTok live discussing the latest fantasy series, social media ensures that no reader has to feel alone in their literary journey.

Social media has undeniably reshaped how Malaysians approach books. It’s created trends, fostered community, and even sparked a renewed interest in local literature.

But it also comes with its pitfalls—buying into hype without research or losing sight of personal preferences. Yet, the positives outweigh the negatives, offering readers new ways to discover and engage with books.

Next time you’re scrolling through TikTok or Instagram,

pause and ask yourself: What kind of stories am I looking for?

You might just discover your next favorite read—or even better, find a book that truly speaks to you.

What’s the last book you picked up because of social media? Share your story in the comments—we’d love to hear about your reading journey!