CONVERSATIONS open the door to bridge our distance as they provide us with a platform to share our stories and experiences.
Whether it is storytelling, information-sharing, advice-giving, or just to vent out feelings, a conversation takes not one heart, but all hearts of those involved to feel connected, ‘intimately’.
That is what ‘The Intimate Talk’ is all about – an initiative by the Performing Arts Centre of Penang (Penangpac) and supported by the Penang government that is aimed at encouraging conversations about all the things that matter to girls, young ladies and women, without any fear.
State Social Development and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Chong Eng said in the Asian culture, girls are often taught from young to safeguard the image and reputation of the family by keeping things to themselves and not to be discussed in the open.
“When these girls become young ladies and women, they continue to carry the burden of truth without being able to talk to people about it, be it the struggle they endure at home, in relationships, marriages, workplace or even within their community.
“As always, the Penang government believes in the need for conversations, dialogues and recognition in order to empower women and build a stronger society.
“We believe this process of empowerment is not restricted to marginalised or vulnerable communities or one gender, but for everyone to become stronger, confident and to take control of their actions.
“That is why this wonderful initiative (The Intimate Talk) by Penangpac is truly supported by the Penang government as it would play a pivotal role in giving the affected women in the society a platform to share their stories with the public,” said Chong Eng when officiating ‘The Intimate Talk’ programme at Penangpac in Straits Quay yesterday.
The programme is a 60-minute public discourse session which focuses on specific topics every month.
Admission is open to women of all ages for free.
The first session took place on Oct 7 with the topic ‘Single Parent: A Blessing in Disguise or a Burden?’.
While speaking to the press, Chong also added that the first session received an overwhelming response, mainly from single and married women sharing their experiences.
The remaining three sessions will be held on Nov 11, Dec 16 and 30.
Penangpac publicity manager Fa Abdul commended the Penang government for showing great support in this matter that needed dire shine of light.
“Penangpac has hit the low since the movement control order (mco) was introduced in March, but we are confident through the support of the Penang government and other organisations, we will surely come back stronger through such programmes,” Fa Abdul added.
Also present was Penangpac company manager Alexander Ooi.
For further information about the programme, call 04-8991722 (Penangpac office).
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Law Suun Ting