THE Malaysia Ceylonese Congress (MCC) Penang branch today organised its annual International Women’s Day celebration to honour the women in our society.
Held at G Hotel Kelawai, the event saw the participation of 50 women from different backgrounds.
Organising chairperson Mala Parameshwaran, who is also the wife of MCC Penang branch chairman K. Parameshwaran, said the celebration is held annually in Penang since 2015 to recognise and honour women publicly and to highlight their importance in today’s world.
“Without this event, women in our society, especially housewives, who make countless sacrifices for their families, will drift away and not realise how important they are to the world.
“Some ladies feel they are always at home, they can’t come out and share their ideas, but today things are changing and we can see for ourselves how women are making headlines and becoming successful in their areas,” Mala said in her speech during the International Women’s Day celebration at G Hotel Kelawai today.
It was learnt that MCC was first established as a political party in 1956, but has slowed down their involvement in politics lately and has been more active in community-related activities.
Tan Lean Kee, wife to Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who was present to officiate the celebration, addressed the crowd by saying that the annual event was not only meant to celebrate women and their contributions or successes, but also to acknowledge their strength, resilience, resourcefulness and adaptability.
“Though inequalities and injustices faced by women still exist, the tides are certainly changing. There’s never been a greater time for us.
“The state government has been very supportive and sensitive to the concerns, growth, participation and contribution of women in the state.
“Through its various initiatives, women have been encouraged to voice out and play a significant role in various spheres, from economic, social, political, arts and culture to science and technology.
“So, rise up ladies to answer the call to play a greater role,” Tan said during her speech.
Meanwhile, guest speaker Datuk Dr Marina David, who is also a dental surgeon by profession, shared her experience in community-related initiatives.
“I was born and bred in Kuala Lumpur, but have spent most of my life here in Penang after my husband, who is also a doctor, was posted here for his job.
“Before I got my government job, I worked with the Vietnamese boat people at the Sungai Besi camp. That was my first real feeling of working with refugees.
“All they needed were volunteers. Since then, I have worked with various non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
“I regard this as an important part of my life as I dedicated my time and effort as a volunteer at the camp. Likewise, I strongly believe all the wonderful, strong and bold women in this room can equally or even do greater things in your lives,” Marina said.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi