About Us

Silverfish Books, the bookstore, was established in 1999 as an independent shop focussed on literature, philosophy, and Malaysian writing in English -- areas which were either neglected or not addressed adequately by mainstream bookstores. We set out to establish a bookstore 'for people who like to read by people who read'; a book-boutique where all titles are individually selected, with many unavailable in any 'mega' store anywhere. We are committed to good reading and good writing. On our website we have an on-line bookshop with a selection of Malaysian Literature in English.

At Silverfish Books, we are the leading publishers of Malaysian writing in English. The first book was Silverfish New Writing 1 -- an anthology of short stories from Malaysia, Singapore and beyond, which attracted post-colonial writers from all over the world – published in the year 2000.

We are, simultaneously, publishers, a bookstore, and an education center. As publishers, we are a little old-fashioned. We sit with our authors and go through every manuscript, line by line, and word by word. It is time consuming but rewarding, because every book counts.

Opening hours for our brick/mortar store in Kuala Lumpur (Tel:+603-228 448 37, email: info@silverfishbooks.com)is:

Mon-Friday: 10.30am to 8.30pm
Saturday: 10.30am-6.00pm
Holidays: 10.30am to 6.30pm
Sunday and major holidays: Closed