Publishing Futures: IPA Congress, Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

A delegation of nine publishers from Indonesia, Malaysia and the UK will be selected via open call to participate in the IPA Congress in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, as well as the bespoke British Council Publishing Futures programme on the days before the Congress. The Publishing Futures programme will include roundtables and workshops with industry leaders which will offer a deep dive into the South-East Asian publishing sector as well as topics of specific interest to the selected delegates. The programme will take place from 2–8 July 2026.

The International Publishers Congress, organized by the International Publishers Association (IPA), is the premier biennial global event for the publishing industry to discuss key trends, challenges, and opportunities. It brings together publishing professionals, associations, and experts to network, exchange ideas to shape a forward looking, inclusive, and globally connected future for the publishing industry

The IPA Congress in Malaysia in 2026 is focused on major global publishing challenges and opportunities, including AI, digital disruption, copyright, freedom of expression, and sustainable publishing practices. It will also highlight the rapidly expanding markets of Asia and Southeast Asia, fostering international collaboration and rights trading.

Opportunities to meet with global publishing leaders and publishers from international markets
Access to a seminar programme which provides insights and builds knowledge around issues facing publishing
Support for introductions and bespoke meetings during the programme
Social and cultural engagements in Kuala Lumpur as part of the programme
Relationship with British Council teams in Malaysia, Indonesia and the UK
Access to British Council’s Publishing Futures Alumni offer which includes invitations to networking events at international publishing meeting points, notifications of grants and opportunities of interest, online skills building workshops

The programme is for future publishing leaders from Indonesia, Malaysia or the UK and applicants must:

Currently hold an editorial or commissioning role at a publishing house and have 5-10 years’ experience in the trade publishing industry
Have limited international experience to date and a desire to build connections and explore collaborations with the global publishing sector
Have the confidence and competence to participate in an English-based programme
Be fully able to participate in the programme, including spending 6 nights in Kuala Lumpur from 2-8 July 2026 and preparatory work in advance
Have a particular interest in literature in translation, underrepresented voices, environmental sustainability and decolonising practices (desirable)
Demonstrate a particular interest in South East Asian literature (desirable)

How to apply

Interested publishers should apply to participate in the programme via the online application form. Applications will be accepted between 20 April 2026 and 10 May 2026.

Apply by 10 May