Implementation of AMURT Reading Book Program in an Effort to Instill Early Reading Literacy at Permata Bangsa Islamic Kindergarten Semarang

Abstract

Literacy is defined as the ability to recognise written symbols and form meaningful sentences. 
To cultivate public interest in reading, the government has implemented a range of initiatives. One such 
initiative is the National Literacy Movement. As a non-governmental organisation engaged in social 
humanitarian work, AMURT participated in this effort by launching the Reading Book Programme to 
cultivate reading literacy. The present study aims to examine the program's implementation at Permata 
Bangsa Islamic Kindergarten in Semarang, as well as the factors that support or inhibit early reading 
literacy. The present study employed a qualitative descriptive method. A data set was collected from the 
principal, teaching staff, and the student guardians at Permata Bangsa Islamic Kindergarten. The data 
presented herein were collected through a combination of interviews, observations, and a documentary 
study. The interactive analysis technique pioneered by Miles and Huberman was utilised for the purposes 
of data analysis. The findings indicated that the AMURT Reading Book Programme is operationalised at 
Permata Bangsa Islamic Kindergarten through three activities: the lending of reading books, the utilisation 
of books as educational resources, and the establishment of reading corners. Supporting factors include 
various parties' support, strengthened governance, optimal utilization of facilities by the school, and both 
parties' commitment to maintaining the reading books.