GEORGE TOWN, PENANG, 23 September 2025 – The recently concluded International Conference on Libraries (ICOL) 2025 celebrated a significant milestone this year, commemorating its 20th anniversary since inception.

Adding to its prestige, ICOL has consistently upheld its reputation as an effective and relevant international platform for dialogue on the evolving landscape of global librarianship.

Held under the theme “Towards Sustainable Future Libraries”, ICOL 2025 organised by the Universiti Sains Malaysia Library, focuses on pressing challenges confronting contemporary libraries.

The conference explores how knowledge institutions can remain resilient, relevant, and adaptable in the face of rapid technological advancements, shifting educational paradigms, and increasingly complex global challenges.

Representing the USM Vice-Chancellor, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation, Professor Dr. Habibah A Wahab, emphasised that libraries have historically played a pivotal role in preserving intellectual heritage and fostering scholarly growth.

“Today, however, libraries face a critical juncture. They are not only entrusted with safeguarding the legacy of knowledge but are also called upon to lead communities into the future,” she said.

“The central question we must collectively reflect on is how libraries can serve as catalysts for sustainable development, innovation, and inclusive progress. I am confident ICOL 2025 will help illuminate the path forward,” she added during her officiating speech at the opening ceremony held at the Ascott Gurney Hotel this morning.

ICOL 2025 brings together hundreds of participants, including librarians, researchers, academics, postgraduate students, policymakers, and information industry professionals from across the globe.

In alignment with its theme, the conference provides a meaningful forum to examine how libraries can evolve into dynamic hubs for knowledge creation, foster collaboration, and promote inclusiveness.

Beyond serving as a platform for research presentations and best practice sharing, ICOL 2025 offers a strategic space to envision future libraries that are sustainable, inclusive, and globally competitive.

Through scholarly discourse, research presentations, and exhibitions showcasing the latest technologies and publications, ICOL 2025 is poised to make a lasting impact on the library community, both in Malaysia and internationally.

Among the distinguished guests at the opening ceremony included the Chairman of the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and Pro-Chancellor of Management and Science University (MSU), Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Zaini Ujang (Keynote Speaker); USM Chief Librarian, Arinawati Ayob; Chief Curator of the Southeast Asia Section at the British Library, London, Dato’ Dr. Annabel Teh Gallop (Keynote Speaker); Deputy Director of Open Science and Research Services at Nanyang Technological University Library, Singapore, Goh Su Nee (Keynote Speaker); and USM Senior Deputy Chief Librarian and Chairperson of ICOL 2025, Radia Banu Jan Mohamad.

Text: Tan Ewe Hoe/Photo: Mohd Fairus Md Isa