Category FAQs Search : Library
Question: What are the Challenges Faced by Libraries and Librarians in Sarawak?
Answer: 1. Sarawak faces unique challenges due to its geographical, infrastructural, and
cultural diversity. One major challenge is geographical and connectivity
limitations. As the largest state in Malaysia, Sarawak contains many rural and
remote communities where internet access and transportation infrastructure
remain limited. These conditions make it difficult for libraries to provide
equitable access to information and digital services.
2. Another important challenge involves the preservation of indigenous and
cultural heritage. Sarawak is rich in indigenous knowledge, oral traditions, local
publications, ethnic languages, and cultural materials. Libraries and archival
institutions, therefore, face significant responsibilities in digitizing, preserving,
and managing fragile historical and cultural collections for future generations.
3. Legal deposit compliance is also an ongoing issue in Sarawak. Many
publications, especially digital publications, self-published materials, and
Ó Sarawak State Library 2
Reference Enquiry 2026
community publications, are not consistently deposited with the relevant
authorities. Libraries, therefore, need stronger awareness programs,
stakeholder collaboration, enforcement mechanisms, and digital submission
systems to improve compliance.
4. Digital preservation challenges continue to grow as libraries increasingly
manage electronic documents, websites, multimedia content, and born-digital
government publications. The risk of technological obsolescence and digital
data loss creates additional pressure for libraries to establish sustainable digital
preservation strategies.
5. Human resources and skills challenges also affect libraries in Sarawak.
Librarians are increasingly expected to function as digital curators, information
specialists, technology facilitators, and educators while managing both
traditional and digital collections. However, limited ICT expertise, increasing
workloads, and the need for continuous professional development remain
significant concerns.
6. Finally, many libraries and repositories in Sarawak face space and collection
management challenges. The continuous growth of physical and digital
collections requires additional storage facilities, preservation spaces, and
repository expansion to ensure proper management and long-term accessibility
of materials.
Click here to download attachment
(Source: , 21 May 2026)