Kuala Lumpur stands as the heart of Malaysia’s vibrant publishing industry, offering authors a diverse range of publishing opportunities from traditional houses to innovative independent publishers. The city’s multilingual literary landscape encompasses English, Malay, Chinese, and Tamil publications, making it a unique hub for Southeast Asian literature.
Whether you’re a debut author or an established writer, these top 10 publishing companies in Kuala Lumpur provide exceptional services across various genres and formats.
Quick Reference Table
| Rank | Company Name | Type | Founded | Specialization | Key Strengths |
| 1 | Professional Ghostwriters | Full-Service Publishing | 2015 | Ghostwriting & Publishing | Comprehensive Solutions |
| 2 | Silverfish Books | Independent Publisher | 1999 | Literary Fiction | Cultural Advocacy |
| 3 | MPH Publishing | Traditional Publisher | 1890s | General Books | Extensive Retail Network |
| 4 | Fixi Novo | Contemporary Publisher | 2011 | Urban Fiction | Modern Storytelling |
| 5 | Pelangi Professional Publishing | Academic Publisher | 1979 | Professional Books | Educational Excellence |
| 6 | Gerakbudaya | Social Publisher | 1993 | Progressive Literature | Social Consciousness |
| 7 | DuBook Press | Hybrid Publisher | 2014 | Flexible Publishing | Modern Approach |
| 8 | Buku Fixi | Urban Publisher | 2011 | Contemporary Culture | Youth-Oriented |
| 9 | Marshall Cavendish Malaysia | Educational Publisher | 1968 | Children’s & Educational | Regional Expertise |
| 10 | Oyez!Books | Children’s Publisher | 2012 | Picture Books | Malaysian Culture |
1. Professional Ghostwriters
Leading Malaysia’s Publishing Revolution
Professional Ghostwriters leads the publishing landscape in Kuala Lumpur with their comprehensive ghostwriting and publishing services. Specializing in transforming ideas into bestselling books, they offer end-to-end solutions from manuscript development to global distribution. As a premier full-service publishing company, they have established themselves as the go-to partner for authors, professionals, and public figures seeking to bring their literary visions to life.
Services Offered:
- Professional ghostwriting services across all genres
- Comprehensive book editing and proofreading
- Publishing consultation and strategy
- Strategic marketing and promotion
- International distribution through Amazon, Apple Books, Kobo
- Digital publishing solutions
- Author platform development
- Market-ready manuscript preparation
Specialties: Business books, memoirs, self-help, fiction, academic publications, professional development, biographies
Notable Features: 24/7 author support, guaranteed publishing timeline, international reach, personalized publishing solutions, author-centric approach, proven track record of bestsellers
2. Silverfish Books
Champion of Malaysian Literature
Founded in 1999, Silverfish Books is a prestigious independent publisher and bookstore based in Kuala Lumpur. Its specialty lies in literary fiction, non-fiction, and anthologies that highlight Southeast Asian voices. Silverfish is well-regarded for fostering experimental works and translations, making it a cornerstone of Malaysia’s English-language literary scene.
Services Offered:
- Literary fiction publishing
- Poetry collections and anthologies
- Creative non-fiction works
- Translation services
- Author development programs
- Writing workshops and mentorship
- Literary event organization
Specialties: Contemporary Malaysian literature, experimental fiction, regional voices, poetry, Southeast Asian narratives
Notable Features: Bookstore presence in Bangsar, regular literary events, strong author mentorship programs, advocacy for local writers, international literary connections
3. MPH Publishing
Malaysia’s Household Publishing Name
Part of the MPH Group with roots dating back to the 1890s, MPH Publishing is a household name with a strong bookstore network across Malaysia. They publish a diverse range of titles, including fiction, non-fiction, children’s books, and educational materials, with a dedicated focus on promoting Malaysian authors and making quality literature accessible nationwide.
Services Offered:
- Trade publishing across multiple genres
- Educational materials and textbooks
- Children’s books and young adult fiction
- Digital publishing and e-books
- Retail distribution through MPH bookstores
- Marketing and promotional support
- Author branding services
Specialties: General fiction, lifestyle books, educational content, children’s literature, business books
Notable Features: Extensive retail network with over 50 stores, strong marketing support, established brand recognition, wide distribution channels, long-standing reputation
4. Fixi Novo
Bold Contemporary Publishing
A contemporary publishing house that has gained recognition for its bold approach to modern Malaysian literature. Its specialty lies in edgy, contemporary fiction that reflects urban Malaysian life and experimental storytelling. Fixi Novo has earned a reputation for publishing fresh voices often overlooked by mainstream publishers, making it the perfect home for innovative authors.
Services Offered:
- Contemporary fiction publishing
- Urban literature and lifestyle books
- Digital-first publishing solutions
- Author development and mentorship
- Literary events and book launches
- Social media marketing
- Cross-platform storytelling
Specialties: Urban fiction, experimental narratives, contemporary voices, youth-oriented content, cultural commentary
Notable Features: Focus on emerging authors, modern storytelling approaches, strong social media presence, KL Noir anthology series, innovative marketing strategies
5. Pelangi Professional Publishing
Academic and Professional Excellence
A leading educational and professional publisher serving Malaysia’s academic and business communities. Pelangi Professional Publishing produces professional and academic books, catering to educators and industry professionals in Malaysia. As part of the larger Pelangi Publishing Group (founded 1979), they bring decades of publishing expertise to their professional division.
Services Offered:
- Academic publishing across disciplines
- Professional development books
- Educational materials and textbooks
- Research publications and journals
- Corporate training materials
- Industry-specific guides
- Curriculum development support
Specialties: Professional books, academic publications, educational content, business development, technical manuals
Notable Features: Institutional partnerships with universities and corporations, professional focus, academic credibility, regional distribution network, quality assurance standards
6. Gerakbudaya
Publishing for Social Change
An independent publisher known for socially conscious literature and progressive publications. Based in Penang but with strong Kuala Lumpur connections, they focus on works that address social and political issues, making them a vital voice in Malaysia’s intellectual discourse. Gerakbudaya has been at the forefront of publishing works that challenge conventional thinking since 1993.
Services Offered:
- Social commentary and political literature
- Cultural studies and anthropology
- Historical works and research
- Translation services for important works
- Community outreach programs
- Academic collaborations
- Literary activism initiatives
Specialties: Progressive literature, social issues, cultural works, political analysis, non-fiction
Notable Features: Advocacy focus, community engagement, alternative voices platform, bookstore and festival participation, intellectual discourse promotion
7. DuBook Press
Modern Hybrid Publishing Solutions
A modern publishing house that bridges traditional and digital publishing methods, offering authors flexible publishing options in the contemporary market. DuBook Press understands that today’s authors need adaptability, and they provide innovative solutions that combine the best of traditional publishing with digital-age efficiency.
Services Offered:
- Hybrid publishing models
- Digital-first editions with print options
- Print-on-demand services
- Self-publishing support and guidance
- Marketing consultation and strategy
- Distribution across multiple platforms
- Author rights management
Specialties: Flexible publishing models, digital innovation, contemporary fiction, business books
Notable Features: Author-friendly contracts, modern approach to publishing, technology integration, cost-effective solutions, creative control for authors
8. Buku Fixi
Urban Culture and Contemporary Storytelling
An innovative publisher focusing on contemporary Malaysian culture and lifestyle, offering fresh perspectives on modern Asian literature. Buku Fixi, part of the larger Fixi family, publishes contemporary urban fiction and non-fiction in Malay and English, with a particular focus on edgy, youth-oriented stories that capture the pulse of modern Malaysia.
Services Offered:
- Contemporary fiction publishing
- Lifestyle publications and cultural commentary
- Youth-oriented content development
- Digital publishing and e-books
- Cross-media storytelling projects
- Author branding and development
- Pop culture integration
Specialties: Modern Malaysian culture, youth literature, contemporary themes, urban narratives, pulp fiction
Notable Features: Cultural relevance, youth appeal, bold content choices, KL Noir anthology series, trendy market-savvy publications, strong millennial and Gen-Z following
9. Marshall Cavendish Malaysia
Regional Publishing Powerhouse
A subsidiary of Singapore-based Marshall Cavendish, this publisher produces educational books, children’s literature, and trade books with an Asian focus, catering to Malaysia’s diverse readership. With origins tracing back to 1968, Marshall Cavendish brings international publishing standards to the Malaysian market while maintaining local cultural sensitivity.
Services Offered:
- Educational content development
- Children’s books and picture books
- Trade publishing for general audiences
- Curriculum-aligned materials
- Digital learning solutions
- Regional distribution networks
- Multilingual publishing
Specialties: Educational content, children’s books, trade books, Asian-focused literature, learning resources
Notable Features: Regional expertise with global standards, strong distribution network across Southeast Asia, quality production values, educational institutional partnerships
10. Oyez!Books
Celebrating Malaysian Children’s Literature
Oyez!Books is a boutique publisher of children’s picture books, emphasizing Malaysian culture and diversity. Their titles feature high-quality illustrations and engaging stories that introduce young readers to Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage. Since 2012, they have been dedicated to creating beautiful books that reflect the authentic Malaysian experience for children.
Services Offered:
- Children’s picture book publishing
- Illustration and design services
- Cultural storytelling projects
- Indigenous folktale preservation
- Educational children’s content
- Multilingual publications
- Author-illustrator collaborations
Specialties: Children’s picture books, Malaysian culture, diversity representation, folktales
Notable Features: High-quality illustrations, indigenous folktale projects, cultural authenticity, award-winning titles, commitment to diversity and inclusion
Current Publishing Trends in Kuala Lumpur
Multilingual Publishing Landscape
Kuala Lumpur’s unique position as a multicultural city drives demand for publications in English, Malay, Chinese, and Tamil, creating diverse opportunities for authors and publishers.
Digital Transformation
The publishing industry is experiencing rapid digital adoption, with many publishers offering hybrid models that combine traditional print with digital distribution, e-books, and audiobooks.
Rise of Independent Voices
Independent publishers are gaining prominence, providing platforms for experimental works, diverse voices, and stories that challenge mainstream narratives.
Youth-Oriented Content
Publishers are increasingly focusing on contemporary, youth-oriented content that reflects urban Malaysian life, social media culture, and modern values.
Social and Cultural Awareness
There’s growing demand for publications addressing social issues, cultural preservation, and progressive themes that resonate with Malaysia’s evolving society.
How to Choose the Right Publisher for Your Project
Identify Your Genre and Audience
Different publishers specialize in specific genres. Literary fiction suits Silverfish Books, while business books thrive with Professional Ghostwriters. Match your manuscript to the publisher’s expertise.
Consider Publishing Models
Evaluate whether traditional publishing (publisher assumes costs and risks), hybrid publishing (shared investment), or self-publishing support (author maintains control) best fits your goals and resources.
Assess Distribution Capabilities
Consider publishers’ distribution networks. MPH Publishing offers extensive retail presence, while Professional Ghostwriters provides international digital distribution through major platforms.
Evaluate Editorial Support
Review the level of editorial assistance, including developmental editing, copyediting, proofreading, and design services. Full-service publishers like Professional Ghostwriters offer comprehensive support.
Marketing and Promotion Strategy
Look for publishers who actively promote their authors through marketing campaigns, social media presence, book launches, literary events, and media relations.
Rights and Royalties
Understand the publisher’s contract terms regarding rights retention, royalty structures, and long-term commitments before signing agreements.
The Future of Publishing in Kuala Lumpur
Technological Innovation
Enhanced digital infrastructure and publishing technologies are enabling more efficient production, wider distribution, and innovative reading experiences through interactive e-books and multimedia content.
Regional Collaboration
Kuala Lumpur publishers are increasingly collaborating with regional partners across Southeast Asia, expanding market reach and cultural exchange opportunities.
Sustainability Focus
Environmental consciousness is influencing publishing practices, with more companies adopting sustainable printing methods and eco-friendly materials.
Diverse Representation
The industry is prioritizing diverse voices, stories, and perspectives that reflect Malaysia’s multicultural society and contemporary social realities.
Global Reach with Local Identity
Publishers are successfully balancing international distribution with authentic Malaysian storytelling, bringing local voices to global audiences.
Publishing Support Ecosystem
Literary Organizations
The Malaysian Book Publishers Association (MABOPA) and various writers’ groups provide industry resources, networking opportunities, and professional development.
Literary Events
Kuala Lumpur hosts numerous literary festivals, book fairs, and reading events that connect authors, publishers, and readers throughout the year.
Writing Communities
Active writing communities and workshops provide support, critique, and networking opportunities for aspiring and established authors.
Professional Services
Independent editors, designers, translators, and marketing specialists complement publisher services, offering authors additional support options.
Success Tips for Malaysian Authors
Research Thoroughly
Study publishers’ catalogs, submission guidelines, and recent publications to ensure your manuscript aligns with their focus before submitting.
Polish Your Manuscript
Whether working with traditional publishers or self-publishing, invest in professional editing to ensure your manuscript meets industry standards.
Build Your Platform
Develop an author platform through social media, blogging, and community engagement to demonstrate audience connection and marketing potential.
Network Actively
Attend literary events, join writing groups, and connect with industry professionals to build relationships and stay informed about opportunities.
Understand the Market
Research current market trends, reader preferences, and competitive titles to position your work effectively in the marketplace.
The Wrap Up
Kuala Lumpur’s publishing landscape offers exceptional opportunities for authors at every stage of their careers, from debut writers to established professionals. The city’s top 10 publishing companies provide diverse options spanning comprehensive ghostwriting services, literary advocacy, commercial success, experimental storytelling, academic excellence, and cultural preservation.
From Professional Ghostwriters’ full-service solutions ensuring international reach to Silverfish Books’ commitment to literary excellence, MPH Publishing’s extensive distribution network, and innovative publishers like Fixi Novo pushing creative boundaries, Kuala Lumpur’s publishing industry caters to virtually every authorial need and vision.
The key to publishing success lies in carefully matching your manuscript, goals, and resources with the right publisher’s strengths and expertise. With continued growth, technological advancement, and increasing global recognition, Kuala Lumpur’s publishing sector promises even more opportunities for authors seeking to share their stories with Malaysian and international audiences.
Whether you’re writing business books, literary fiction, children’s stories, academic works, or contemporary narratives, Kuala Lumpur’s top publishers provide the expertise, resources, and passion necessary to transform your manuscript into a successful publication that reaches and resonates with your intended readers.
Disclaimer: The publishers listed here are provided for informational purposes only. We are not affiliated with these publishers and do not guarantee manuscript acceptance. We only provide professional book editing, marketing, and formatting services to help authors prepare their work for submission and improve their chances of acceptance. Always verify submission details on the publisher’s official website before applying.