Top 55 Book Publishing Companies in Malaysia — Updated 2025

Malaysia’s book ecosystem is lively and diverse: from centuries-old educational publishers and national cultural institutions to scrappy independents putting out bold fiction, poetry, and illustrated books. Below, I’ve compiled a contemporary, hands-on guide to the top 55 publishing companies you should know in Malaysia in 2025. For each publisher, you’ll find a short profile, who they are, why choose them, and their strengths — so you can quickly match a manuscript, project, or collaboration to the right house.

1. Ghostwriter Inside (Hybrid / Ghostwriting + Publishing Model)

Who they are: Ghostwriter Inside is a pioneering hybrid publishing model that seamlessly blends ghostwriting services with traditional publishing support.

Why Choose: Ghostwriter Inside offers tailored services with customized packages designed to meet the unique needs of each author. The Authors bring support to a wide range of genres, including fiction, drama, romance, memoir, and non-fiction, making it suitable for diverse creative projects.

Strengths: Ghostwriter Inside provides comprehensive end-to-end support, handling everything from writing and editing to production, design, and marketing.

2. Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP)

Who they are: DBP is Malaysia’s national language and publishing body. It publishes authoritative Malay literature, reference works, school- and university-level texts, and cultural studies.
Why choose: If your work is scholarly, culturally significant in Malay, or aligned with education and national-language promotion, DBP is an obvious partner.
Strengths: institutional reach, credibility, and wide distribution through government and academic channels.

2. Pelangi Publishing Group

Who they are: One of Malaysia’s major educational publishers with a large presence in school textbooks, children’s books, and digital learning resources. Pelangi is publicly recognized and operates regionally.
Why choose: Educational authors, children’s authors, and creators of curriculum-linked content will find Pelangi’s editorial and distribution network ideal.
Strengths: curriculum-aligned publishing, strong distribution to schools, experience with digital content.

3. MPH Group (MPH Publishing)

Who they are: An old and established Malaysian book retailer and publisher (MPH’s history traces back to the 19th century retail roots) that continues to publish and retail broadly across Malaysia.
Why choose: Good if you want a commercial audience, bookstore access, and a mix of general-market titles.
Strengths: bookstore and distribution infrastructure, broad consumer reach, retail experience.

4. PTS Media Group

Who they are: PTS is known for handling a wide range of genres from children’s books and lifestyle to religious and self-development titles. They are prolific and have multiple imprints.
Why choose: Authors targeting Malay-language mass-market, children’s literature, or faith- and lifestyle niches.
Strengths: high volume output, diverse imprints, solid retail distribution.

5. Buku FIXI (FIXI)

Who they are: An independent publisher founded in 2011 that helped popularize contemporary urban Malay fiction and edgy indie titles; also active in English and translation projects. Fixi has a hip, literary-pop profile in Malaysia’s scene. Wikipedia+1
Why choose: If you write contemporary fiction, YA, thrillers, or want a publisher with strong cultural cachet and creative marketing.
Strengths: strong brand among younger readers, successful marketing tie-ins (events, film adaptations), nimble editorial voice.

6. Silverfish Books

Who they are: A respected independent publisher and literary press known for quality fiction, non-fiction, and experimental works.
Why choose: Authors with literary, experimental, or thought-provoking manuscripts seeking thoughtful editorial care.
Strengths: literary credibility, curated lists, quality design, and editorial attention.

7. Karangkraf Group

Who they are: A large media and publishing conglomerate with magazines, books, and digital content. Karangkraf plays an important role in Malay-language publishing across genres.
Why choose: Mass-market Malay authors, serial or magazine-derived projects, and authors seeking a platform connected to media outlets.
Strengths: media cross-promotion, scale, strong presence in Malay-language markets.

8. Gerakbudaya

Who they are: Independent house focusing on literary and cultural titles, translations, and books that push the conversation in Malaysian letters.
Why choose: Authors of literary non-fiction, translation projects, and culturally important titles.
Strengths: strong editorial taste, engagement in literary festivals and cultural conversations.

9. Sasbadi Holdings

Who they are: An education-focused publisher producing school textbooks, workbooks, and learning materials, particularly for Malaysia’s primary and secondary curriculum.
Why choose: Educational authors and curriculum content creators.
Strengths: trusted school distribution, curriculum alignment, and resources for teacher materials.

10. Times Publishing (Malaysia)

Who they are: The Malaysian arm of Times — known for trade publishing, children’s books, and regional titles. They often handle international tie-ins and general trade lists.
Why choose: Trade authors seeking bookstore distribution and ties to international rights or larger networks.
Strengths: trade channels, experience in translation/rights work, connections to larger publishing ecosystems.

11. Ilham Books

Who they are: Small to mid-size independent press with a focus on Malaysian literature in English and Malay — often bringing forward marginalized or fresh voices.
Why choose: Writers of contemporary Malaysian fiction/non-fiction wanting a focused, personal editorial relationship.
Strengths: passionate editorial team, attention to author development, literary positioning.

12. Institut Terjemahan & Buku Malaysia (ITBM) / Malaysian Institute of Translation & Books

Who they are: A government-linked organization that supports translation and publication, especially of educational and heritage texts.
Why choose: Projects needing translation support, bilingual editions, or cultural heritage publication.
Strengths: translation expertise, grant/partnership pathways, cultural-preservation remit.

13. Utusan Publications & Distributors

Who they are: A publisher with historical ties to Malay newspapers and broader content publishing; known for non-fiction and cultural titles.
Why choose: Authors of Malay non-fiction, biographies, and topical books aiming at the mainstream Malay readership.
Strengths: media ties, distribution to Malay readership, and established brand recognition.

14. Alaf 21 / Karangkraf Imprint (historically significant imprint)

Who they are: An imprint associated with Karangkraf, producing commercial fiction, romance, and popular Malay titles.
Why choose: Commercial fiction authors seeking a high-volume Malay readership.
Strengths: genre focus, mass audience reach, marketing muscle.

15. Oyez!Books

Who they are: Independent, focusing on picture books and children’s literature rooted in Malaysian settings and cultures.
Why choose: Picture-book authors or illustrators looking for a publisher that values local storytelling and high production standards.
Strengths: children’s publishing expertise, illustrator networks, cultural authenticity.

16. Ilmu Bakti / Hidayah & Islamic publishers (grouped)

Who they are: A cluster of publishers specializing in Islamic studies, faith-based titles, and education. (There are several houses with this focus.)
Why choose: Authors of Islamic thought, faith education, devotional materials, or Malay-language theology.
Strengths: specialist markets, trusted networks in religious communities, targeted distribution.

17. Penerbit UTM Press / University Presses (selected)

Who they are: University and academic presses in Malaysia (UTM Press, UKM Press, etc.) that publish scholarly works, theses, and academic monographs.
Why choose: Academics need a peer-reviewed, scholarly publication and institutional credibility.
Strengths: academic peer review, institutional distribution to libraries, and long-term archival value.

18. Ilham Media / Boutique imprints

Who they are: Smaller boutique presses and designer imprints that publish high-quality art, photography, and niche non-fiction.
Why choose: Creators of coffee-table books, photography books, design, and art titles.
Strengths: production quality, design sensibility, niche collector audiences.

19. Independent & Micro presses (cluster: e.g., Rumah Buku, small indie presses)

Who they are: A lively scene of micro-publishers, literary collectives, and self-publishing services that publish chapbooks, zines, poetry, and community projects.
Why choose: Poets, experimental writers, and community authors wanting rapid, DIY publishing or close community curation.
Strengths: agility, DIY culture, strong community engagement, and festival presence.

20. Regional Imprints & Hybrid Publishers (print-on-demand services)

Who they are: A group of service-oriented publishers and hybrid houses that combine editorial packages with author-funded printing/distribution. They’re increasingly important for authors who want control plus professional services.
Why choose: Authors who want flexible contracts, greater royalties, fast time-to-market, or hybrid distribution.
Strengths: speed, flexibility, modern publishing tools (POD, ebooks), and author autonomy.

21. Marshall Cavendish (Malaysia)

Who they are: The Malaysian arm of Marshall Cavendish, known for educational materials, children’s books, and certain trade titles in the region.
Why choose: If you produce curriculum-linked content, illustrated children’s books, or educational resources with regional appeal.
Strengths: International editorial standards, regional distribution links, strong track record in illustrated and reference works.

22. Oxford University Press Malaysia / Oxford Fajar (educational imprints)

Who they are: International academic and educational institutions with a longstanding presence in Malaysian schools and higher education.
Why choose: Textbook authors, academic authors, and creators of ELT (English Language Teaching) materials.
Strengths: Academic credibility, rigorous editorial and review processes, teacher/student adoption networks.

23. Penguin Random House (regional / SEA presence)

Who they are: Global trade publisher with Southeast Asia operations and distribution partnerships that reach Malaysian bookstores.
Why choose: Trade authors seeking international distribution, strong marketing, and rights opportunities.
Strengths: Global marketing reach, rights/sales teams, bookstore placement.

24. Kadokawa Gempak Starz (comics & graphic novels)

Who they are: Major publisher for comics, graphic novels, manga-style titles, and pop-culture media in the Malay language and regionally.
Why choose: Comic artists, graphic-novel authors, and creators of serialized, pop-culture-driven stories.
Strengths: Established comics platform, merchandising and media tie-in know-how, youth audience reach.

25. Monsoon Books / Regional trade imprints

Who they are: Regional trade publishers (Monsoon Books is one example) that focus on Southeast Asian fiction, travel, and culture.
Why choose: Authors of regional fiction, cultural non-fiction, travel, or titles that appeal across ASEAN.
Strengths: Regional marketing expertise, experience with translations, and cross-border distribution.

26. University Presses (expanded: UKM Press, UPM Press, USM Press, etc.)

Who they are: The university presses across Malaysia that publish academic monographs, edited volumes, and research outputs.
Why choose: Scholars seeking peer-reviewed publishing and institutional recognition.
Strengths: Academic review, library distribution, long-term credibility for CVs and tenure dossiers.

27. Buku Fixi Imprints (e.g., Fixi Novo / Fixi Cereka — imprint-style extensions)

Who they are: Subsidiary imprints and project lines from successful independents (e.g., specialised imprints focused on English-language fiction, poetry, or anthologies).
Why choose: Authors who want the creative energy of independents but a more targeted imprint identity.
Strengths: Niche branding, curated lists, cultural cachet.

28. Regional Educational Houses (e.g., Macmillan Education SEA partnerships)

Who they are: International educational publishers operating regionally through local partners and imprints.
Why choose: ELT authors, curriculum writers, and creators of teacher resources.
Strengths: Curriculum expertise, teacher adoption channels, and high production values.

29. Gaya Nusantara / Malay-language trade houses (collective)

Who they are: A cluster of Malay-language trade publishers (romance, commercial fiction, lifestyle) who command mass-market shelves and e-commerce channels.
Why choose: Commercial fiction authors and lifestyle authors writing for Malay readers.
Strengths: Large print runs, genre expertise, marketing to mass Malay readership.

30. Art & Design/Boutique Presses (examples: boutique photo/art book publishers)

Who they are: Small specialized presses that produce photography, art, design, and high-end coffee-table books.
Why choose: Photographers, artists, and designers who demand exquisite production quality.
Strengths: Attention to print and materials, design-led editorial process, small-batch collectibility.

31. Hybrid & Author-Service Publishers (POD-focused houses)

Who they are: Providers that combine professional services (editing, design, distribution) with print-on-demand and hybrid contracts.
Why choose: Authors who want professional production but greater control over rights and royalties.
Strengths: Flexibility, speed to market, higher royalty share for authors

32. ZI / Independent Malay-language houses (small but influential)

Who they are: A group of smaller Malay-language imprints and independent houses that punch above their weight with strong local followings.
Why choose: Writers seeking strong cultural alignment with Malay-language readers and creative editorial collaboration.
Strengths: Deep community ties, nimble marketing, strong presence at local literary events.

33. Religious & Faith-based Houses (expanded list)

Who they are: Numerous specialised publishers for Islamic studies, devotional literature, and faith education (beyond the cluster listed earlier).
Why choose: Authors of faith-based, educational, or devotional titles targeting mosque and community networks.
Strengths: Trusted channels into religious communities, specialist editorial teams.

34. Children ‘s-Only Publishers (expanded: specialists beyond Oyez!)

Who they are: Dedicated children’s book houses and imprints focusing on picture books, early readers, and school readers.
Why choose: Picture-book authors and illustrators who need publisher expertise in age-appropriate storytelling and design.
Strengths: Illustration networks, experience with color printing, and durable children’s formats.

35. Translation & Cultural Houses (beyond ITBM)

Who they are: Presses and institutes devoted to translations, bilingual books, and cultural preservation, working with translators and academics.
Why choose: Authors who want their works translated or who work on regional literature and heritage topics.
Strengths: Translation networks, grant/partnership opportunities, cross-cultural marketing.

36. Digital-First & E-book Specialists

Who they are: Publishers that emphasize digital-first strategies — eBooks, audiobooks, and mobile-friendly formats — sometimes with subscription or app-based distribution.
Why choose: Authors targeting tech-native readerships, serialized e-fiction, or audiobook-first projects.
Strengths: Speed, analytic-driven marketing, multi-format production.

37. Literary Collectives & Micropresses (expanded examples)

Who they are: Small presses, collectives, and co-ops that publish poetry, short fiction, zines, and experimental forms. They often operate on grant funding or community support.
Why choose: Poets, experimental writers, and community anthologies needing hands-on collaboration.
Strengths: Curatorial focus, festival presence, and high community engagement.

38. Corporate & In-House Publishing Divisions

Who they are: Corporations, NGOs, and government bodies that publish reports, CSR books, employee memoirs, and stakeholder-facing titles.
Why choose: Authors commissioned to write institutional histories, corporate biographies, or sector reports.
Strengths: Commissioned funding, guaranteed print orders, targeted stakeholder distribution.

39. Regional Distributor / Wholesaler Partners (important for market access)

Who they are: Distribution companies and wholesalers who may not be publishers but control shelf space, logistics, and retailer relationships across Malaysia and neighbouring markets.
Why choose: Authors/publishers seeking wide retail penetration and efficient supply chain.
Strengths: Retail relationships, logistics scale, promotional placement opportunities.

40. Specialty Academic & Trade Hybrids (niche subject specialists)

Who they are: Small to mid-size houses that straddle academic rigor and trade accessibility — think popular science, policy briefs, regional history, law primers, and professional manuals.
Why choose: Authors whose work is scholarly but written for a broad professional or general audience.
Strengths: Credibility with professionals and libraries, ability to market to both campuses and general readers.

41. Buku Pelanduk Publications

Who they are: Founded in 1980, Buku Pelanduk is one of Malaysia’s most respected independent publishers. It carved its niche in publishing critical socio-political works, historical titles, and academic commentary.

Why choose: Authors writing political analysis, contemporary history, or policy-focused non-fiction will find Buku Pelanduk a natural fit. It’s especially suited for works that challenge, inform, or spark national debate.
Strengths: Their reputation as an independent house gives them credibility and authority in serious non-fiction

42. Hidayah Publishers

Who they are: A specialist Islamic publisher that focuses on spiritual education, Islamic studies, motivational titles, and children’s books rooted in Islamic values. Over decades, it has built strong trust in Malaysia’s Muslim communities.
Why choose: Writers of Islamic thought, Qur’an and Hadith commentaries, children’s Islamic storybooks, and motivational guides for family life.
Strengths: They’ve mastered the art of making faith-based material accessible to all ages. Their wide distribution in mosques, religious schools, and mainstream bookstores ensures a strong readership, while their affordable editions make them attractive to everyday families.

43. Penerbit Universiti Malaya (UM Press)

Who they are: As the publishing arm of Malaysia’s premier university, UM Press carries a prestigious academic reputation. They publish monographs, textbooks, and scholarly works across disciplines. Many of their titles become standard references in Malaysian and international universities.
Why choose: Ideal for scholars and postgraduate researchers looking to share academic findings in medicine, law, social sciences, and humanities.
Strengths: With a rigorous peer review process and global academic networks, UM Press books are highly respected and often cited. They provide authors not only with national visibility but also international recognition within academic circles.

44. Penerbit Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM Press)

Who they are: UKM Press is well-regarded for advancing works in Malay studies, linguistics, education, and social sciences. Their catalog emphasizes research relevant to Malaysia’s cultural and national identity.
Why choose: Perfect for academics working on the Malay language, culture, identity, and education. Their books are widely referenced in Southeast Asian studies.
Strengths: They contribute significantly to the preservation and advancement of Malay knowledge. By choosing UKM Press, authors align themselves with one of Malaysia’s strongest institutions for cultural and linguistic research.

45. Penerbit Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM Press)

Who they are: USM Press specializes in scientific research, medical studies, and regional development publications. They also highlight Southeast Asian cultural and environmental studies.
Why choose: Authors writing on environmental science, medicine, technology, or regional development will find USM Press an authoritative outlet.
Strengths: With Penang as its base, USM has strong connections to ASEAN research networks. Their books often bridge academic knowledge with real-world application, making them valuable to policymakers and professionals alike.

46. Penerbit Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM Press)

Who they are: Known for agriculture, veterinary science, food technology, and applied sciences, UPM Press plays a vital role in advancing Malaysia’s agrarian and scientific sectors.
Why choose: Researchers producing work in sustainable agriculture, biotechnology, or food security will find a strong home here.
Strengths: UPM’s reputation as an agricultural leader ensures that books published under their press reach both academic and industry professionals. Their titles frequently inform government policy and scientific practice in Malaysia.

47. Penerbit Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM Press)

Who they are: UiTM Press produces works in business, management, design, and applied sciences, reflecting the strengths of its university. They also publish textbooks for Malaysia’s largest public university system.
Why choose: Authors focusing on business management, creative industries, and technical fields benefit from UiTM’s large academic community.
Strengths: Their wide reach across UiTM campuses gives them unmatched distribution among students. They also emphasize applied, practice-oriented research that bridges academia and industry.

48. Penerbit Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Malaysia (IIUM Press)

Who they are: IIUM Press is a key voice in Islamic scholarship, comparative religion, law, and economics. It also publishes works that encourage intercultural dialogue.
Why choose: Islamic scholars, Shariah law experts, and writers of interfaith or ethical economics books.
Strengths: IIUM Press enjoys strong international collaborations with Islamic universities worldwide, making its books highly visible in both Muslim-majority and global academic contexts.

49. Penerbit Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS Press)

Who they are: UMS Press shines a spotlight on East Malaysia, with a catalog rich in Bornean culture, indigenous studies, and marine/environmental sciences.
Why choose: Authors of ethnographic studies, indigenous languages, biodiversity research, and cultural anthropology.
Strengths: Their specialization in Sabah’s unique ecological and cultural heritage makes them a crucial publisher for works that highlight Malaysia’s diversity beyond Peninsular narratives

50. Penerbit Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS Press)

Who they are: Based in Sarawak, UNIMAS Press focuses on indigenous knowledge, arts, cultural heritage, and sciences. They play an essential role in publishing works on Sarawak’s diverse communities.
Why choose: Authors with research on indigenous peoples, arts, cultural identity, or conservation in Borneo.
Strengths: Their commitment to indigenous voices and regional identity preservation ensures that unique cultural perspectives find a respected platform.

51. Buku Prima (Karangkraf Imprint)

Who they are: As a commercial imprint under Karangkraf, Buku Prima focuses on mainstream fiction, including romance, thrillers, and contemporary novels. They dominate Malaysia’s mass-market shelves.
Why choose: Fiction writers aiming for commercial success in the Malay language market, especially in romance and family drama genres.
Strengths: Buku Prima’s wide retail presence, aggressive marketing, and appeal to younger readers make it one of the most commercially powerful imprints in Malaysia.

52. Penerbit Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI Press)

Who they are: UPSI Press is closely tied to education and pedagogy, reflecting UPSI’s role as Malaysia’s premier teacher-training university.
Why choose: Educational researchers and authors of pedagogy, teacher development, and curriculum studies.
Strengths: UPSI Press books are often adopted in teacher training colleges, ensuring that authors directly impact future educators in Malaysia.

53. Perbadanan Kota Buku (Kota Buku)

Who they are: A government-backed initiative that supports publishing, digital tools, author training, and international book fair participation. Kota Buku acts as both a publisher and an industry facilitator.
Why choose: Authors who want a platform that goes beyond publishing — offering networking, marketing support, and digital exposure.
Strengths: Their hybrid role as both a publishing entity and a development agency provides authors with visibility in local and international literary markets.

54. Crescent News (Publishers)

Who they are: Crescent News has a solid presence in educational publishing, particularly in supplementary books, reference guides, and bilingual school materials.
Why choose: Writers of workbooks, revision guides, and easy-to-understand educational texts.
Strengths: Affordability and practicality. Their books are widely used in classrooms and tutoring centers, making them a staple for school-age learners.

55. Mind to Mind

Who they are: A well-known name in the Malaysian education publishing industry, Mind to Mind specializes in assessment books, test-preparation materials, and skill-building titles for students.
Why choose: The Authors focused on creating practice materials and supplementary content for Malaysia’s school curriculum.
Strengths: High adoption rates in schools, consistent demand from parents, and reliable nationwide distribution make Mind to Mind a steady partner for educational writers.

Top 55 Book Publishing Companies in Malaysia — Updated 2025

Rank	Publisher	Who They Are	Why Choose	Strengths
1	Ghostwriter Inside	A leading ghostwriting and publishing service catering to authors seeking professional book creation, editing, and publishing solutions.	Authors who want end-to-end publishing support, from writing to publishing.	Full-service publishing, confidentiality, and global reach.
2	Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP)	The national publisher promoting Malay language and literature, producing textbooks, dictionaries, and heritage titles since 1956.	Authors of Malay literature, school books, and national heritage titles.	Authority, wide distribution, government recognition.
3	Karangkraf Media Group	One of the largest publishing houses in Malaysia, with magazines, novels, Islamic titles, and mass-market fiction.	Fiction, lifestyle, and Islamic authors.	Mass market reach, strong branding, multiple imprints.
4	PTS Media Group	Independent publisher focusing on Islamic content, children’s books, and educational titles.	Writers of Islamic-themed works and children’s content.	Large catalog, strong retail presence, innovative marketing.
5	Fixi	Trendy independent publisher for urban fiction and edgy contemporary literature with a cult following among young readers.	Authors of alternative, urban, and modern Malay fiction.	Bold brand identity, cult following, crossover appeal.
6	Oxford Fajar (Malaysia)	Educational publisher providing textbooks, workbooks, and references aligned with Malaysian and international syllabi.	Academic writers and educators.	International standards, strong distribution in schools.
7	Marshall Cavendish (Malaysia)	Regional educational publisher with a strong Southeast Asian presence, especially in mathematics and sciences.	Authors of textbooks and learning guides.	Trusted by schools, regional market access.
8	Pelangi Publishing Group	Major educational and children’s book publisher producing bilingual and export-ready content.	Children’s authors and curriculum writers.	Strong school market, bilingual publishing, and exports.
9	Sasbadi Holdings	Specialist in educational books, revision guides, comics, and digital learning tools.	Education-focused writers and assessment authors.	MOE-approved titles, digital innovation.
10	UCSI University Press	An academic publisher linked to UCSI University, focusing on business, engineering, and sciences.	Academic authors in the sciences, business, and engineering.	Rigorous peer review, academic reputation.
11	ITBM (Institut Terjemahan & Buku Malaysia)	Publishes translations, literary works, and promotes Malaysian authors abroad.	Authors of translated works, literature, and critical essays.	Strong international connections, bilingual publishing.
12	Times Publishing (Malaysia)	Publishes educational titles and retail distribution across Southeast Asia.	Textbook and academic writers.	Cross-border distribution, trusted educational brand.
13	MPH Group Publishing	One of Malaysia’s oldest bookstores also operates as a publisher, focusing on lifestyle, self-help, and local writers.	First-time authors, lifestyle, and self-help writers.	Well-known brand, bookstore distribution.
14	Al-Hidayah Publishers	Specialist in Islamic publishing, producing books on the Quran, Hadith, and Islamic family life.	Islamic scholars and faith-based writers.	Accessibility, trusted in Muslim communities.
15	Think City	Publishes works on urban planning, sustainability, and heritage conservation in Malaysia.	Urban studies and social science authors.	Specialized niche, policy relevance.
16	Areca Books	Independent publisher based in Penang, focusing on the heritage, history, and culture of Malaysia.	Authors of history, architecture, and cultural studies.	High-quality production, regional heritage expertise.
17	Silverfish Books	Independent publisher and bookstore specializing in literary fiction and alternative voices.	Literary authors and poets.	Reputation in literary circles, international recognition.
18	Clarity Publishing	Boutique publisher focusing on lifestyle, memoirs, and inspirational books.	Memoirists and lifestyle writers.	Niche appeal, quality design.
19	ZI Publications	Independent publisher with bold, contemporary works including fiction and non-fiction.	Authors seeking edgy, modern platforms.	Innovative, youth-oriented brand.
20	Sunway University Press	Academic Press is linked to Sunway University, publishing in social sciences, business, and sciences.	Academic researchers.	Academic credibility, strong editorial board.
21	Gerakbudaya	Independent publisher and distributor known for socio-political titles and translations.	Activists, researchers, and academics.	Progressive, bold, and intellectual appeal.
22	SIRD (Strategic Information and Research Development Centre)	Publishes critical social sciences and political economy works.	Academics, NGOs, and researchers.	Critical thought leadership, policy influence.
23	University of Malaya Press (UM Press)	Malaysia’s premier university press, publishing research in law, medicine, humanities, and sciences.	Academics and postgraduate writers.	Prestige, peer-reviewed quality.
24	IIUM Press (International Islamic University Malaysia)	Publishes Islamic studies, law, comparative religion, and social sciences.	Islamic and academic writers.	International Islamic network, credibility.
25	UiTM Press	Publishes across disciplines reflecting UiTM’s strengths in business, design, and applied sciences.	Academic and research authors.	Massive internal readership, academic reach.
26	UPM Press (Universiti Putra Malaysia)	Publishes agricultural sciences, food tech, and biotech research.	Scientific researchers.	Strong agricultural reputation, policy influence.
27	USM Press (Universiti Sains Malaysia)	Focuses on sciences, medicine, technology, and cultural studies.	Researchers and academic writers.	Respected peer review, ASEAN reach.
28	UKM Press (Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia)	Publishes Malay studies, linguistics, and education titles.	Authors in Malay culture and linguistics.	National identity focus, cultural authority.
29	UMS Press (Universiti Malaysia Sabah)	Publishes indigenous studies, biodiversity, and East Malaysian heritage.	Authors of Borneo studies.	Regional identity, unique cultural focus.
30	UNIMAS Press (Universiti Malaysia Sarawak)	Publishes indigenous languages, arts, and sciences from Sarawak.	Indigenous and cultural authors.	Strong on diversity and heritage.
31	UPSI Press	Publishes pedagogy, curriculum studies, and teacher training resources.	Educational researchers and authors.	Adopted widely in teacher education.
32	Kota Buku	Government-backed initiative supporting publishing, training, and international promotion.	Authors seeking both publishing and promotion.	Strong network, hybrid model.
33	Crescent News	Publishes educational books, supplementary guides, and bilingual resources.	Authors of school and exam prep materials.	Affordable, widely used in schools.
34	Mind to Mind	Publishes assessment books, exam prep, and skill-building titles.	Authors of educational content.	High adoption rates in schools.
35	Al-Ameen Serve Holdings	Publishes Islamic titles, children’s books, and family-oriented reading.	Faith-based content writers.	Community trust, family readership.
36	Sasbadi Online	Digital wing of Sasbadi focusing on e-learning and online content.	Writers of interactive and digital learning.	Digital-first, MOE-linked.
37	BookCapital	Independent publisher for fiction, memoirs, and business titles.	Self-help, memoir, and fiction authors.	Modern, niche-friendly.
38	Whitecoat Publications	Publishes medical, health, and professional books.	Doctors, medical researchers, and health writers.	Professional niche authority.
39	Seashore Publishing	Publishes general fiction and creative non-fiction for mass readers.	Novelists and lifestyle authors.	Wide readership appeal.
40	Patriot Publishing	Publishes works on Malaysian history, politics, and patriotism.	Historians and socio-political writers.	National relevance, strong readership.
41	Buku Pelanduk Publications	Independent publisher of political, social, and history-focused works since 1980.	Political analysts and non-fiction authors.	Credibility in intellectual circles, bold publishing.
42	Hidayah Publishers	Publishes Islamic spiritual, motivational, and children’s books.	Writers of Islamic thought and family-oriented content.	Strong reach in mosques, schools, and bookstores.
43	Penerbit Universiti Malaya (UM Press)	Malaysia’s most prestigious academic press, publishing law, medicine, humanities, and sciences.	Academic researchers.	Rigorous standards, global academic visibility.
44	Penerbit Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM Press)	Focuses on Malay studies, education, and social sciences.	Authors in linguistics and culture.	Strong role in cultural preservation.
45	Penerbit Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM Press)	Publishes sciences, medicine, culture, and ASEAN studies.	Researchers in science and development.	Respected academic output, strong networks.
46	Penerbit Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM Press)	Specialist in agriculture, veterinary sciences, and food technology.	Writers in agriculture and biotech.	High policy impact, agricultural authority.
47	Penerbit Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM Press)	Published across business, management, creative industries, and applied sciences.	Business and academic writers.	Strong student market reach.
48	Penerbit Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Malaysia (IIUM Press)	Publishes Islamic scholarship, law, economics, and interfaith dialogue works.	Islamic academics and legal experts.	International Islamic reputation.
49	Penerbit Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS Press)	Publishes East Malaysian heritage, culture, and biodiversity.	Ethnographic and cultural authors.	Strong Bornean identity representation.
50	Penerbit Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS Press)	Publishes indigenous culture, arts, and sciences.	Cultural and conservation authors.	Unique Sarawak identity.
51	Buku Prima (Karangkraf Imprint)	Commercial imprint focusing on mass-market fiction and romance.	Romance and family drama writers.	Wide retail reach, aggressive marketing.
52	Penerbit Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI Press)	Publishes pedagogy and teacher training materials.	Educational researchers.	Essential in teacher education programs.
53	Perbadanan Kota Buku	Hybrid publisher and industry agency supporting writers and international markets.	Writers seeking both exposure and training.	International links, local support.
54	Crescent News (Publishers)	Specialist in supplementary educational materials for schools.	Authors of workbooks and guides.	Affordable, mass distribution.
55	Mind to Mind	Educational publisher known for assessment and practice books.	Education-focused writers.	High school adoption, steady market.

How to Choose the Right Publisher in Malaysia

When selecting the best publisher for your manuscript in Malaysia, consider the following factors:

• Genre Fit: Match your work with the publisher’s specialty (e.g., Fixi for edgy urban fiction, Pelangi for children’s/educational, DBP for Malay literature).
• Target Audience: Decide if your book is for schools, the general public, or academic circles.
• Publishing Model: Some publishers offer full traditional contracts, while others work on co-publishing or hybrid models.
• Distribution Strength: Choose publishers with proven retail or school networks to ensure your book reaches readers.
• Editorial & Marketing Support: Look at whether the publisher provides editing, cover design, book launches, and promotions.
• Language: Ensure your manuscript fits the language preference of the publisher — Malay, English, Chinese, or bilingual.

Quick industry realities for 2025

• Education publishing remains strong in Malaysia because textbooks and curricular materials are perennial buyers (schools, revisions, government contracts). Houses like Pelangi and Sasbadi continue to be important.
• Indie fiction is visible and influential — Buku FIXI and Silverfish have proven the appetite for well-edited Malay and English contemporary fiction and for books that crossover into film or youth culture.
• Hybrid models are growing — print-on-demand, author services, and boutique imprints let authors publish faster and keep more control, but they require authors to take on marketing responsibilities.
• Translation support matters — organizations like ITBM assist with bilingual projects and translations, which can widen your readership regionally.

Short checklist before submitting

• Manuscript professionally proofread and formatted.
• Query letter targeted to the house (show why your book fits their list).
• Comparable titles listed (what similar books the publisher has succeeded with).
• Marketing blurb and author bio with platform info (events, social reach).
• Rights clarity: which rights you’re offering and which you retain.

Conclusion

Malaysia’s publishing industry in 2025 is thriving, with over 55 active and influential publishing companies ranging from state-backed giants like DBP to innovative independents like Fixi, and international players such as Oxford Fajar. This mix creates opportunities for authors of all genres — whether writing academic research, school textbooks, edgy fiction, children’s books, or religious content.

By carefully aligning your manuscript with the right publisher’s strengths, audience, and vision, you can greatly improve your chances of success. With the right choice, your book can find its place not just in Malaysia’s bookstores and schools, but across the wider Southeast Asian and international market.

FAQs

1. What types of publishers exist in Malaysia?

Malaysia has a diverse publishing ecosystem: government publishers (like DBP), university presses, large commercial publishers (Karangkraf, PTS), educational specialists (Pelangi, Sasbadi), independent presses (Fixi, Gerakbudaya), and niche players (Oyez!Books for children, Gempak Starz for comics).

2. Can new authors get published in Malaysia?

Yes. Many publishers welcome debut authors, especially in children’s books, education, and contemporary fiction. Independent publishers like Fixi and Silverfish are especially open to fresh voices with unique perspectives.

3. Do Malaysian publishers accept English manuscripts?

Absolutely. While Malay-language publishing dominates, many houses accept English manuscripts — especially in academic, international trade, or children’s publishing. Examples: Silverfish Books, Gerakbudaya, and university presses.

4. Do publishers in Malaysia offer digital and eBook services?

Yes. Many publishers, especially Sasbadi, Pelangi, and Kota Buku, are expanding into digital platforms, eBooks, and interactive learning materials to reach wider audiences.

5. Do I need an agent to publish in Malaysia?

Not usually. Most Malaysian publishers accept direct submissions. However, having a literary agent or professional editor can improve your chances of success, especially for international distribution.

 

Disclaimer: The publishers listed here are provided for informational purposes only. We are not affiliated with these publishers and do not guarantee manuscript acceptance. We only provide professional book editing, marketing, and formatting services to help authors prepare their work for submission and improve their chances of acceptance. Always verify submission details on the publisher’s official website before applying.