The Women’s Centre for Change Penang (WCC) today unveiled its first-ever charity art exhibition and sale, celebrating 40 years of advocacy for women’s and children’s rights in the state.
Held at the Penang State Legislative Assembly Exhibition Hall in George Town, the exhibition runs from April 19 to 27 and is open to the public daily from 10am to 4pm.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who officiated the event, was captivated by the 76 artworks on display.
He commended WCC’s enduring commitment to ending violence against women and children throughout its decades of advocacy.
“Your work is widely respected, not just in Penang but across the country as well. You have become a beacon of hope for many, and today’s event is a testament to your impact and legacy.
“We are proud to be a long-time supporter of WCC. Our continuous funding for Pusat Perkhidmatan Wanita (PPW) in Seberang Perai over the past 16 years has enabled WCC to provide free services to countless women and children in vulnerable communities.
“The development of women cannot rest solely on the shoulders of the Penang Women’s Development Corporation (PWDC) or even the state Social Development, Non-Islamic Religious, and Welfare Committee chairman Lim Siew Khim. Each of us, including civil society, the private sector, families, and individuals must play our respective roles,” he said during the event.
Chow also praised former state executive councillor Chong Eng for her contributions to empowering women in the state.
“If we want to see Penang thrive, then women must not only be safe and supported. They must also be empowered to lead, to dream big, and to shape the future of this state,” he said, expressing hope that more women will enter politics.
Touching on the significance of the event, Chow described art as a vital thread in Penang’s cultural fabric, that brings people together.
He noted the artworks today range from scenic landscapes to charming streetscapes.
WCC fundraising ambassador Datuk Annie Chin expressed gratitude to those who donated their artworks for the cause.
“We are delighted that half of the artworks have already been sold, and we hope to reach our RM100,000 target from this exhibition sale.
“The proceeds will be used to support WCC’s work in ending violence against women and children,” she said.
Chin added that a fundraising dinner would also be held at St Giles Wembley on Aug 24.
Also present at the event were Lim, WCC president Dr Hajar Abdul Rahim, and exhibition curator Ooi Kok Chuan.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar
Video by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis