JOHOR BARU: A book fair has opened its doors here to avid readers as well as those who are feeling charitable during this season of giving. Popular Book Co. Malaysia Sdn Bhd is hosting the 13th annual Mega Book Fair at Midvalley Exhibition Centre, Southkey, which kicked off on Dec 20 and will run for 10 days. During the launch of the book fair, Popular senior project manager Helen Goh said there would be a ‘Christmas Gift Bank’ charity campaign to run concurrently with the fair. “The charity campaign, which is an integral part of these book fairs, is done to spread the Yuletide cheer to the less fortunate members of society. “The campaign allows the public to play Santa this year by dropping off gifts worth more than RM15 at this Popular branch which will then be given to beneficiaries,” she said. Goh added that donors will receive a RM10 gift voucher from Popular for their generosity during the campaign that ends Dec 29. Three foster homes will be the beneficiaries of the gifts, namely Pusat Kebajikan Care Haven, Pusat Kebajikan Mesra Megah Ria, and Pertubuhan Kebajikan Shan De Johor Baru. Officiating the book fair was state Education deputy director Sallina Hussain, who spoke on the importance of reading for the younger generation. “I hope all who are here today will understand the importance of reading to gain knowledge, especially the younger generation, as you are the hope of the nation,” she said. Two of the beneficiaries were present during the event, where a total of 18 children were given a RM30 voucher each by Popular as well as tidbits and goodies sponsored by Abrand food manufacturing Sdn Bhd, Julie’s Manufacturing Sdn Bhd, and BMS Organics. Lo Wen Le, 14 from Pusat Kebajikan Mesra Megah Ria, was excited to be able to pick up some new comics with the voucher he received. “I like reading adventure and monster genre Manhwa (Korean graphic novels), and there seems to be a few to choose from here,” he said. As for Henry Thhm, 8, and Sharon Wong, 9, both from Pusat Kebajikan Care Haven, they were looking for some educational reads. “I like reading all types of books, especially educational ones that teach me about new things,” Sharon said. Popular Bookstore is also celebrating its 95th anniversary this year with promotions and rewards for members such as rebates of up to 40% on certain books, as well as purchase with purchase deals of up to 60%. Local and Taiwanese authors will also make appearances on certain dates until the end of the campaign. For more information visit www.popular.com.my, Popular Malaysia’s official Facebook page or via the Popular MY app.