Have you written a book and dream of seeing it in the hands of readers across Malaysia—or even beyond? You’re not alone. With the rise of digital platforms and print-on-demand services, self-publishing has become a powerful path for Malaysian authors to take control of their publishing journey.
Gone are the days when getting published meant waiting endlessly for approval from traditional publishers. Today, writers in Malaysia are embracing the freedom to produce, publish, and promote their own work on their own terms. Whether you’ve written a novel, a memoir, or a business guide, self-publishing gives you the chance to get your message out into the world.
This guide walks you through every step of the self-publishing process—from preparing your manuscript to choosing the right platform and getting your book into the hands of readers.
Why Self-Publishing is Gaining Popularity in Malaysia
In recent years, Malaysian writers have become more empowered than ever to publish their stories. Self-publishing is no longer just a backup plan—it’s a strategic and rewarding choice. With access to digital tools and direct-to-reader platforms, authors are finding ways to take control of their work and earn more on their own terms.
Here’s why self-publishing is becoming more mainstream:
- Creative Control: Authors get to decide everything—from the book cover and title to pricing and publishing dates.
- Higher Royalties: Platforms like Amazon KDP and Google Play Books offer significantly better royalty rates than traditional publishing.
- Faster Time-to-Market: Instead of waiting months for a publishing deal, writers can launch their books in a matter of days or weeks.
- Growing Digital Readership: More Malaysians are reading eBooks, creating a growing market for indie authors.
Authors like Tunku Halim and Hanna Alkaf have helped shine a spotlight on local literature, inspiring more Malaysian writers to self-publish and reach global audiences.
Step-by-Step Guide to Self-Publishing a Book in Malaysia
If you’re ready to bring your book to life, these are the key steps every Malaysian self-published author should follow.
Step 1 – Finish and Edit Your Manuscript
The first and most crucial step is completing your manuscript. But writing “The End” is just the beginning. Your draft must go through multiple rounds of editing to ensure it’s reader-ready.
Start with a self-edit: read your manuscript aloud, check for flow, and cut unnecessary words. Then, get feedback from a trusted beta reader or writing group.
If your budget allows, hiring a professional editor is highly recommended. An editor will polish your work, catch errors you’ve missed, and help you tighten the structure.
Step 2 – Design Your Book Cover and Layout
Your book cover is your first chance to impress potential readers—and it matters more than you might think. A professionally designed cover helps your book stand out in both digital stores and physical displays.
Here’s how to approach this step:
Hire a designer with experience in book covers (you can find freelancers on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork).
- Use Canva’s free templates if you’re on a tight budget, but stick to clean, readable fonts and high-resolution images.
- Ensure your book’s interior layout is professionally formatted for both print and digital versions. Tools like Vellum, Reedsy, or Adobe InDesign can help.
Don’t forget front and back matter: title page, copyright page, table of contents, and an author bio. A well-designed book builds trust with your audience and encourages sales.
Step 3 – Get an ISBN in Malaysia
An ISBN (International Standard Book Number) is a unique identifier for your book and is required if you want to distribute it through bookstores or libraries.
In Malaysia, ISBNs are issued for free by the National Library of Malaysia (Perpustakaan Negara Malaysia).
Here’s what you need to do:
- Visit gov.my and apply under the ISBN section.
- You’ll need to submit a form and provide details like the book title, author name, and publishing format.
- Note: Each version (eBook, paperback, hardcover) needs its own ISBN.
- After publishing, you’re required to send two print copies of your book to the National Library as part of the legal deposit system.
Applying for an ISBN is a simple but important step that makes your book official and searchable in catalogs.
Step 4 – Choose Your Publishing Format
Next, decide whether you want to publish your book as an eBook, print edition, or both. Each format has its own advantages, and the choice often depends on your goals and budget.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Format | Benefits | Best For |
| eBook | Low cost, instant global access | Fiction, non-fiction, self-help |
| Print-on-Demand (POD) | No inventory, order-as-needed | Memoirs, guides, novels |
| Offset Printing | Cheaper per unit in bulk | Events, book fairs, physical bookstores |
For most new authors, Print-on-Demand is a smart choice—it allows you to print copies only when someone orders, reducing upfront costs and inventory worries.
Step 5 – Select the Right Self-Publishing Platform
Choosing where to publish your book can make a big difference in how far it travels. The good news? Malaysian authors have access to a wide range of platforms for both digital and print publishing.
Here are the most commonly used platforms:
- Amazon KDP: Ideal for global reach, offering eBook and paperback options.
- Google Play Books: Popular among Android users in Southeast Asia.
- Draft2Digital / Smashwords: Allows wide distribution across Apple Books, Kobo, Barnes & Noble, and more.
- E-Sentral: A local Malaysian eBook platform catering to regional readers.
- MPH Online / Bookurve: These local retailers offer consignment sales for printed books, although they are more selective.
Before committing to one platform, read their distribution terms carefully. Some may require exclusivity for higher royalty rates, while others allow broader reach without restrictions.
Step 6 – Set Your Price and Royalties
Pricing your book is a strategic move. Set it too high, and you may lose potential readers. Too low, and you might not recover your production costs.
Start by researching similar books in your genre and format. Look at pricing on Amazon, E-Sentral, or Google Play Books.
Here’s a general pricing guide:
- eBooks:90–RM19.90, depending on length and genre.
- Print Books: RM20–RM60, based on size, binding, and quality.
Most platforms offer the following royalty structures:
- Amazon KDP: 70% for eBooks priced between $2.99–$9.99.
- Google Play Books: Flexible pricing but subject to automatic discounts.
- Local platforms: Typically offer 50–70% of the sales price.
You should also consider promotions, free giveaways, and pre-order pricing to build momentum.
Step 7 – Market and Promote Your Book
Publishing a book is just the beginning. To get people reading it, you’ll need a solid marketing plan. Fortunately, Malaysia’s growing reading culture and social media scene give authors plenty of ways to promote.
Start with these steps:
1. Build Your Author Brand
- Create a website or landing page to introduce yourself and your book.
- Use platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook to share updates, writing insights, and quotes from your book.
2. Tap into Local Communities
- Join Facebook groups such as “Malaysian Writers” or “KL Book Nerds.”
- Connect with local influencers, bloggers, or book clubs for reviews and features.
3. Try Paid and Organic Promotions
- Run Amazon or Facebook ads with targeted keywords.
- Offer your book for free or at a discount for a limited time to generate reviews and visibility.
4. Participate in Events
- Attend or speak at book fairs, writing workshops, or online panels.
- Pitch your book to independent bookstores or submit to local competitions.
Marketing is ongoing, but every post, interview, or mention increases your visibility—and your chances of success.
Legal and Cultural Considerations in Malaysia
Before you hit “publish,” it’s important to ensure your book aligns with Malaysia’s legal and cultural landscape.
Here are a few key points to keep in mind:
1. Respect for Religion and Culture:
Malaysia has a diverse and multicultural society. Content that offends religious sensitivities may face scrutiny or censorship.
2. Language Choice:
Consider your audience. English reaches a wider regional audience, but Bahasa Malaysia may resonate more locally.
3. Content Guidelines:
Avoid defamatory material or misinformation, especially in nonfiction or memoirs. Always fact-check.
If in doubt, it’s wise to consult a local publishing expert or lawyer—especially if your book explores sensitive themes.
Conclusion
Self-publishing a book in Malaysia is an exciting and empowering journey. It allows you to bring your story to life, build your brand, and reach readers both locally and globally—without waiting for traditional gatekeepers.
With the right tools, thoughtful preparation, and a commitment to quality, you can publish your book professionally and successfully. Whether your dream is to inspire, educate, entertain, or simply share your voice, the opportunity is in your hands.
Start where you are. Polish your manuscript, choose the right platform, and take that first step toward becoming a published author in Malaysia.
FAQs
1. Do I need a publisher to sell my book in Malaysia?
No. Self-publishing allows you to publish and sell your book independently through platforms like Amazon KDP, Google Play Books, or local bookstores.
2. How much does it cost to self-publish in Malaysia?
Costs vary based on editing, cover design, and promotion. On average, expect to invest RM500–RM3000 depending on your needs.
3. Can I sell my self-published book in Malaysian bookstores?
Yes, through consignment or by partnering with local distributors. Independent bookstores may be more open to self-published titles.
4. What is the best platform for eBooks in Malaysia?
E-Sentral is great for local readers. For global exposure, Amazon KDP and Google Play Books are excellent choices.
