They may not be many, but Penang boasts several independent publishing houses, such as Clarity Publishing, Areca Books, Entrepot Publishing, as well as the academic USM Press and smaller NGOs like Third World Network and Consumers Association of Penang (CAP). Sustaining them, however, involves a deluge of creative decisions to contend with the rising popularity of electronic publishing and e-books. Penang Monthly speaks with two indie publishers on how they, despite the odds, have successfully carved out their niches in the local publishing scene.
