NATIONAL LIBRARY LAUNCHES IMMERSIVE LEARNING CENTRE FOR HERITAGE DIGITISATION

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 20 (Bernama) -- The National Library of Malaysia (PNM) today launched the Immersive Learning Centre as an initiative to empower the digitisation of the country's heritage treasures and expand access to digital learning based on the latest technology.

Its director-general, Edy Irwan Zulkafli said the development of the centre is in line with the government’s aspirations to make libraries modern and inclusive learning hubs, while also strengthening PNM's role as a leader in library digital transformation in the country.

“The Immersive Learning Centre introduces the use of technology such as Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), the metaverse, holograms, librarian avatars, curved LED screens, interactive panels, Robozone, and an AR Photobooth to support more interactive and high-impact learning methods," he said.

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He said this at the opening ceremony of the centre, built under the Fifth Rolling Plan (RP5) of the 12th Malaysia Plan (MP12) and Budget 2025, with project implementation which began on March 15, 2025, and was completed on Nov 28, 2025.

According to Edy Irwan, the initiative under the Ministry of National Unity (KPN) also aims to empower digital literacy among the public and encourage the use of technology as a medium for fostering national unity through more comprehensive and integrated learning programmes.

He said PNM will continue to expand the use of modern technology in each of the library’s services to support human capital development, as well as ensure that technology-based learning opportunities can be enjoyed by all levels of society, regardless of background or educational level.

A PNM visitor, Mohd Amir Saari, 34, described the centre as a significant innovation to the conventional library concept.

“At first glance, this centre offers a very different experience. Usually, libraries are associated only with scientific books, but the concept brought here is something new, especially for those of us who often visit Kuala Lumpur," he said.

He said the use of new technology, especially digital gaming elements, is not only attractive but also effective in conveying information to visitors, particularly the younger generation who are increasingly close to technology.

Additionally, Amir said that the technology-based learning approach opens up wider avenues for knowledge exploration and is no longer limited to books alone.

“Interestingly, this centre not only benefits youngsters but has also added value to adults. This shows an inclusive and relevant approach to all segments of society," he added.

-- BERNAMA