Kuala lumpur: The transition from printed magazines to digital formats has become a necessity in today's technology-driven environment, as emphasized by Datuk Dr Anwar Ridhwan, chairman of the Board of Directors of Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar highlighted that this shift not only enables cost savings but also enhances accessibility and empowers more interactive content delivery. Digital platforms significantly reduce expenses related to printing, distribution, and physical storage, benefitting both publishers and readers. Additionally, they offer smaller publishers the opportunity to access a broader market.

Anwar made these remarks while inaugurating the National Seminar on Publishing Magazines and New Media in Malay in Malaysia at Wisma DBP. As a National Laureate, he also pointed out that digital magazines contribute to environmental sustainability by eliminating the need for printed materials, which are resource-intensive and contribute to deforestation and carbon emissions.

Furthermore, Anwar noted that digital content provides a more engaging reading experience through interactive elements-such as videos, animations, and instant feedback-elements that traditional print cannot offer. The younger generation's affinity for the digital world also means they prefer digital magazines.

Meanwhile, DBP director-general Dr Hazami Jahari emphasized the importance of maintaining quality, credibility, and authenticity in digital content. He noted that the new media landscape allows anyone to publish content, thereby increasing the need for moral and professional responsibility, especially regarding language use, factual accuracy, and cultural values.

Dr Hazami advocated for a sustainable ecosystem to support digital publishing, which includes digital media training, information literacy, clear publishing policies, and incentives for writers and content creators, particularly those working in the Malay language.