We are thrilled to announce the third annual Professional Development Workshop on Library and Information Services (PDWLIS) — a landmark event that brings together library and information professionals from across the Maldives for an immersive learning experience. This year’s workshop will be held in Malaysia from July 25 to August 2, 2025, featuring an inspiring itinerary of library visits, expert-led workshops, and cultural exploration.

Clicks from predeparture meeting held on July 15, 2025.

About the PDWLIS Series

PDWLIS is a student-led initiative that began in 2023, born out of a desire to bridge classroom learning with global best practices in librarianship. Supported by the Maldives Library Association (MLA) and Maldives National University’s Faculty of Arts (MNU-FA), the workshop series has quickly evolved into a highly anticipated annual event.

  • 2023 held in Singapore
  • 2024 held in Indonesia
  • 2025 will be held Malaysia
  • Coming 2026 will be held in Perth, Australia (planned)

PDWLIS 2025 Highlights

With over 13 prestigious library visits scheduled, this year’s program offers rare access to some of Malaysia’s most innovative knowledge institutions. Highlights include:

  • National Library of Malaysia
  • University of Malaya Central Library
  • Perdana Leadership Foundation Library
  • Monash University Malaysia Library
  • Raja Tun Uda Library
  • PPAS Community Libraries
  • Kuala Lumpur Public Library
  • And more!

Participants will also attend three professional workshops, including sessions on:

  • AI tools in academic libraries
  • Effective school library management
  • Implementation planning for local impact

A Truly National Representation

This year, the PDWLIS cohort includes students from:

  • BA-LIM, DLIS, and ACLIS programs at MNU
  • Library professionals affiliated with MLA
  • Sponsorship-supported librarians from the People’s Majlis and MNU

Follow the Journey

Stay tuned as our 2025 cohort shares live updates, stories, and reflections from Malaysia. Follow us on social media using #PDWLIS2025 or reach out via info.malias@gmail.com for more information.

Interested in supporting or joining future PDW-LIS events?

Become a member of MLA: http://shorturl.at/t0126