Malaysia’s publishing industry has developed into a dynamic mix of traditional, independent, academic, and digital-first publishers. Writers here have the unique advantage of accessing a multilingual market, with publications in Bahasa Melayu, English, and Chinese reaching audiences locally and across Southeast Asia. From heritage-focused presses to contemporary fiction champions, Malaysia offers a rich ecosystem for new and seasoned authors alike.
This list of 54 top book publishing companies in Malaysia (updated for 2025) is carefully compiled to help you discover the best fit for your book project—whether you’re working on literary fiction, children’s books, scholarly research, or commercial romance.
#1. Barnett Ghostwriting (Author Services Partner)
Barnett Ghostwriting is not a traditional publisher, but it plays a critical role in helping Malaysian and Southeast Asian authors succeed. Their team specializes in ghostwriting, developmental editing, book coaching, and Publishing Services for writers aiming to produce publication-ready manuscripts. They’re particularly effective for authors who have strong ideas but need help with structure, language, or storytelling flow. By guiding clients from concept to final draft, Barnett ensures books are competitive before submission to Malaysian publishers. Many local writers credit Barnett for helping them secure publishing deals with well-known regional presses.
Trade & General Publishers
#2. Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP)
As Malaysia’s national language authority, DBP plays a vital role in shaping the country’s literary landscape. They publish a wide array of Malay-language literature, reference works, poetry, and educational texts. Authors published here benefit from the prestige and reach of a government-backed institution, as DBP books often become part of school and university syllabi.
#3. PTS Media Group (PTS Publications)
A major player in Malay-language publishing, PTS Media Group produces fiction, nonfiction, Islamic literature, and children’s titles. They have multiple imprints catering to different reader demographics, offering strong nationwide distribution and active participation in book fairs.
#4. Karangkraf Media Group
Karangkraf is one of Malaysia’s most recognized publishing brands, producing both books and magazines. Their catalog includes popular fiction, inspirational nonfiction, lifestyle books, and Islamic titles. Their media connections provide excellent promotional opportunities for authors.
#5. Alaf 21 (Imprint of Karangkraf)
Focused on romance and commercial Malay fiction, Alaf 21 has built a loyal readership. Their books are widely available in local bookstores, making them a top choice for authors looking to reach mass-market fiction audiences.
#6. Karya Seni (Imprint of Karangkraf)
Specializing in romantic and contemporary fiction, Karya Seni appeals to younger readers who enjoy engaging, relatable stories. They also maintain an active social media presence, boosting author visibility.
#7. Buku Prima (Imprint of Karangkraf)
Buku Prima publishes a broad range of fiction and lifestyle nonfiction. Their accessible writing style and mainstream appeal make them ideal for authors targeting general readership.
#8. Buku Fixi
A pioneer in Malaysia’s indie publishing scene, Buku Fixi is known for edgy, urban, and experimental fiction. They encourage bold storytelling and have helped introduce Malaysian literature to international audiences.
#9. Lejen Press
Lejen Press focuses on youth-driven, alternative fiction. Their publications often blend humor, social commentary, and modern culture, appealing to readers looking for something different.
#10. Dubook Press
Dubook Press is an independent house committed to literary fiction and critical nonfiction. They prioritize thought-provoking works and encourage discussions around contemporary issues.
#11. Iman Publication
Iman Publication produces Islamic lifestyle books, motivational nonfiction, and modern Muslim literature. Their books often feature clean designs and messages that resonate with a wide readership.
#12. The Patriots Publishing
This publisher is known for history, culture, and national identity books. Their goal is to make history more engaging for the general public through accessible storytelling.
#13. Gerakbudaya
Gerakbudaya is an influential indie publisher specializing in social sciences, critical theory, and cultural studies. They are respected for nurturing voices that challenge the status quo.
#14. SIRD (Strategic Information & Research Development Centre)
SIRD publishes works on public policy, history, and socio-political issues. They are an important resource for academics and researchers in Malaysia.
#15. Areca Books
Based in Penang, Areca Books focuses on heritage, history, and architecture. Their beautifully produced titles often become collector’s items.
#16. Silverfish Books / Silverfish Press
A champion of Malaysian literature, Silverfish publishes literary fiction, anthologies, and cultural essays. They have a strong record of supporting emerging authors.
#17. Matahari Books
Matahari Books curates a small but impactful list of nonfiction, memoirs, and cultural essays. Their publications are known for being intellectually stimulating yet accessible.
#18. Oyez!Books
Dedicated to children’s literature, Oyez!Books collaborates with talented illustrators to produce high-quality picture books rooted in Malaysian culture.
#19. Pelangi Publishing Group
Pelangi is a leader in educational and children’s publishing, producing textbooks, activity books, and illustrated stories widely used in schools.
#20. Sasbadi
Sasbadi specializes in school textbooks, workbooks, and STEM-related materials. They are also active in publishing educational technology resources.
#21. Gempak Starz (Kadokawa Gempak Starz)
Malaysia’s top name in comics, manga, and graphic novels. They work with both local artists and Japanese partners to deliver high-quality illustrated content.
#22. Maple Comics
Maple Comics supports local comic creators, producing graphic novels and manga-inspired works. They are known for nurturing artistic talent.
#23. Telaga Biru
A major publisher of Islamic reference works, spiritual guides, and family-oriented books, Telaga Biru enjoys a strong reputation in the community.
#24. Ana Muslim
Specializing in Islamic children’s books, Ana Muslim produces colorful and engaging educational materials for young readers.
#25. Pelanduk Publications
Pelanduk publishes general nonfiction, biographies, and cultural studies. They focus on works that contribute to Malaysia’s intellectual heritage.
#26. Institut Terjemahan & Buku Malaysia (ITBM)
ITBM is instrumental in translating foreign works into Malay and promoting Malaysian authors internationally. They publish both original and translated works.
#27. Oxford Fajar (OUP Malaysia)
An educational leader, Oxford Fajar produces textbooks, dictionaries, and academic resources in line with international standards.
#28. Pearson Malaysia
Pearson focuses on school and higher education resources, offering digital and print learning solutions.
#29. Marshall Cavendish Education (Malaysia)
Publishes K–12 educational books, teacher resources, and assessment materials aligned with Malaysian and Singaporean curricula.
#30. Pan Asia Publications
Produces educational books, revision guides, and language learning materials used extensively in schools.
#31. Hup Lick Publishing
One of Malaysia’s oldest educational publishers, offering school books and exam preparation materials.
#32. Cerdik Publications
Known for revision books and supplementary learning resources across primary and secondary school levels.
#33. Kualiti Books
Publishes school textbooks, activity books, and early childhood learning materials.
#34. Utusan Publications & Distributors
Utusan produces general nonfiction, references, and school materials, drawing on its long-standing media presence.
#35. Berita Publishing
Specializes in coffee-table books, travel guides, and lifestyle publications with strong visual appeal.
#36. MPH Group Publishing
The publishing division of the MPH bookstore chain, offering general nonfiction, business books, and lifestyle titles.
University & Institutional Presses
#37. Penerbit Universiti Malaya (UM Press)
Publishes academic books, journals, and research-based works across multiple disciplines.
#38. Penerbit Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM Press)
Known for producing scholarly publications in humanities, sciences, and social studies.
#39. Penerbit Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM Press)
Strong in agriculture, food science, and social sciences.
#40. Penerbit Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM Press)
Publishes arts, cultural studies, and science-based research.
#41. UTM Press (Universiti Teknologi Malaysia)
Specializes in engineering, technology, and applied sciences publications.
#42. UiTM Press (Universiti Teknologi MARA)
Produces research-based books, teaching materials, and academic journals.
#43. IIUM Press (International Islamic University Malaysia)
Focuses on Islamic studies, law, and education in multilingual formats.
#44. UNIMAS Press (Universiti Malaysia Sarawak)
Known for Borneo studies and indigenous knowledge publications.
#45. UMS Press (Universiti Malaysia Sabah)
Publishes works related to marine science, biodiversity, and local culture.
#46. Sunway University Press
Specializes in social sciences, business, and cultural studies.
#47. UTP Press (Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS)
Produces publications in engineering, energy, and applied sciences.
#48. UTHM Press (Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia)
Focuses on technical education, engineering, and vocational studies.
#49. UMT Press (Universiti Malaysia Terengganu)
Known for marine studies, aquaculture, and environmental science.
Digital-First, Genre & Niche Specialists
#50. KakiNovel
A mass-market romance publisher producing light, engaging reads for a large audience.
#51. Jejak Tarbiah
Publishes contemporary Islamic thought, spirituality, and motivational works.
#52. NovelPlus Press
The print arm of a digital reading platform, turning online serials into printed books.
#53. e-Sentral Publishing
Specializes in e-book publishing and distribution, catering to tech-savvy readers.
#54. MBRAS (Malaysian Branch of the Royal Asiatic Society)
A scholarly publisher dedicated to Malaysian history, archaeology, and cultural heritage.
Conclusion
Malaysia’s publishing industry in 2025 offers remarkable diversity, with opportunities for every type of author. Whether you’re writing an academic monograph, a fast-paced romance, or a richly illustrated children’s book, there’s a Malaysian publisher that matches your vision. Partnering with a professional service like Barnett Ghostwriting can further improve your chances of success by ensuring your manuscript is polished before submission. With the right match, your book could become part of Malaysia’s rich and evolving literary culture.
