Introduction

HISTORY OF THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE FEM READING CORNER

The establishment of the Reading Corner at the Faculty of Human Ecology (FEM) is a continuation of the READ@UNI campaign launched by the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia. This campaign, implemented across all public and private higher education institutions including Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), aims to nurture a reading culture as a regular practice within academic institutions. In support of this initiative, the FEM community is committed to promoting and sustaining reading habits within this esteemed campus.

As a starting point, the FEMBaca Corner was introduced, with the front lobby of the FEM administrative office designated as the official reading area for staff, students, and visitors to the faculty. Towards the end of 2024, this corner was rebranded as Read & Relax, with the hope that the new identity would offer a fresher ambiance—one that is more relaxed, pleasant, and conducive compared to before. Although Read & Relax is still relatively new, the faculty remains committed to continuously organizing engaging activities within the space.

One of the main goals of Read & Relax FEM is to provide a comfortable and casual reading space for students, staff, and visitors from both within and outside UPM. While waiting for services at the counter, guests are welcome to take a short break, relax, and enjoy the reading materials available at the R&R corner.

In mid-May 2025, the FEM Reading Corner Committee undertook efforts to enhance the space, making it more customer-friendly and conducive, in line with the Public Sector Conducive Ecosystem (EKSA) evaluation for the 2024/2025 cycle. These improvements are also considered in the overall assessment for the EKSA competition at UPM. A more corporate and visually appealing atmosphere was introduced to attract more visitors to the Read & Relax space and to encourage its use as a meaningful stopover for reading and relaxation.

Various activities have been planned throughout 2025, involving programs organized by the FEM Administrative Office, the FEM Sports and Welfare Club, as well as participation from FEM lecturers—further strengthening efforts to embed a reading culture among the FEM community.