KUALA LUMPUR — The Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair 2026 will host one of its most anticipated sessions on May 31, as publishing leaders from across Southeast Asia gather to discuss the future of the industry in the age of artificial intelligence. Titled “Books, Beyond Boundaries: Shaping the Industry in the Age of AI”.
The forum will take place at 1:00 pm on the Main Stage of the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur.
The session is part of The One Talk: Where Leaders Commune, a flagship dialogue series designed to bring together influential voices in publishing. The line‑up features an impressive roster of speakers: Trasvin Jittidecharak, founder of Silkworm Books in Thailand; Peter Schoppert, director of NUS Press in Singapore; and Law King Hui, co‑founder of Sasbadi Holdings Berhad in Malaysia. Each brings a unique perspective shaped by decades of experience in regional and international publishing.
Moderating the conversation will be Sheikh Faisal Sheikh Mansor, chairman of the Malaysian Book Industry Chamber (MBIC), whose role is to steer the dialogue toward pressing questions of innovation, sustainability, and cultural relevance. The session will be hosted by Keith Thong, chairman of The One Talk Show @ PBAKL/UBSM, who has long championed cross‑border collaboration in the book trade and whose vision is to create a platform where publishers, writers, and readers can grapple with the challenges of a rapidly evolving landscape.
The discussion is expected to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping editorial processes, distribution models, and reader engagement. With AI tools increasingly used for translation, content curation, and even creative writing, the panel is expected to weigh both opportunities and challenges.
For publishers, the central question is how to harness technology without losing the human touch that defines literature and learning.
Beyond the technical debates, the session aims to highlight the enduring role of books as cultural bridges, even as boundaries blur in the digital era.
For attendees, the forum promises not only insights into the evolving publishing landscape but also a rare chance to hear directly from leaders who are shaping its trajectory. As the industry stands at the crossroads of tradition and technology, this conversation may well set the tone for how Southeast Asian publishing adapts to the age of AI.
Speaker profiles:
Trasvin Jittidecharak (Thailand)
Founder of Silkworm Books, Trasvin Jittidecharak, is widely recognised as one of Thailand’s most influential independent publishers. Since establishing Silkworm in Chiang Mai in 1991, she has championed works that highlight Southeast Asian history, politics, and culture, giving regional voices a platform in the global literary marketplace. Her commitment to cross‑cultural dialogue has made Silkworm a respected name among scholars and readers alike. Trasvin’s leadership reflects a deep belief in the power of books to bridge divides, and her perspective on AI in publishing is expected to emphasise editorial integrity and the preservation of authentic voices.
Peter Schoppert (Singapore)
As director of NUS Press, Peter Schoppert oversees one of Singapore’s most prominent academic publishing houses. His career spans both publishing and digital innovation, with a focus on disseminating scholarly research to wider audiences. Under his stewardship, NUS Press has expanded its reach across Asia, producing works in history, politics, and cultural studies. Schoppert is known for balancing rigorous editorial standards with openness to technological change. At PBAKL 2026, he is likely to highlight how artificial intelligence can support research dissemination, streamline production, and enhance access to knowledge without compromising scholarly depth.
Law King Hui (Malaysia)
Co‑founder of Sasbadi Holdings Berhad, Law King Hui has played a pivotal role in shaping Malaysia’s educational publishing sector. Sasbadi is renowned for its textbooks, learning materials, and innovative approaches to education, including early adoption of digital platforms. Law’s vision has consistently been to integrate technology into learning, making education more accessible and adaptive. His insights at the forum are expected to focus on how AI can complement traditional teaching tools, personalise learning experiences, and prepare students for a future where digital literacy is essential. Law’s presence underscores Malaysia’s leadership in educational publishing within the region.
WE