WITH time, women have risen and proven that they can accomplish high achievements if opportunities are given while dismissing all the prejudices and cultural barriers.
This was also reflected when a total of 30 women, who have contributed towards the well-being of the society, were honoured by the state government today during the ‘Wanita Hebat’ event at the Harmony Centre in Scotland Road.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who attended the event’s closing ceremony, applauded the recipients for their achievements in their respective fields.
“Our heartiest congratulations to all the ‘Wanita Hebat’ who come from various backgrounds for having received the recognition at this simple and yet meaningful event.
“You have impacted the lives of the community tremendously with your dedication and sacrifices that certainly deserve all praises,” said Chow during his speech at the event.
Chow also appreciated the significant contribution made by the women frontliners, who have put forth their efforts in combating the pandemic.
“Alongside with these achievers here, there are also women out there who are the workers in the health sector; caregivers, innovators and community organisers who are tirelessly fighting the pandemic,” he added.
Apart from that, Chow also stated that the state government has collaborated with the non-governmental organisations (NGOs) since October 2020 to address issues pertaining to domestic violence cases that have increased ever since the movement control order (MCO) was implemented in March last year.
“As an approach to rectify such incidences, the state government has implemented various progressive and inclusive policies through the NGOs.
“The establishment of the ‘Safe Family’ Policy was among our initiatives taken to deal with issues regarding domestic violence.
“It provides support services to tackle domestic violence which has shown an increase since the implementation of the MCO in March last year,” said Chow.
Chow added that the state government reaffirmed its women empowerment agenda by introducing the ‘Top-Up Only Women Only Additional Seats’ (TWOAS) policy in October 2020 to fight for the representation of 30 per cent women in the State Legislative Assembly.
Chow also congratulated the Women and Family Development Committee (JPWK) from 17 constituencies for jointly organising the programme.
“Kudos to the JPWK for successfully organising this event and portraying a great leadership quality.
“The JPWK, which was established in all the 40 constituencies, provides a platform for women to showcase talents in various fields, including the policy maker,” he added.
Meanwhile, state executive councillor for Non-Islamic Religious Affairs and Social Development Chong Eng hoped that more women would come forward and contribute towards the betterment of the society.
Chong Eng together with Batu Kawan MP Kasthuriraani Patto, state executive member Dr Norlela Ariffin, state assemblymen Syerleena Abdul Rashid (Seri Delima), Lim Siew Khim (Sungai Pinang) and Heng Lee Lee (Berapit) were among those recognised as ‘Wanita Hebat’.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar
Video by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi