WOMEN must learn to prioritise themselves, says Penang Women’s Development Corporation (PWDC) chief executive officer Ong Bee Leng.
“Continue to learn as knowledge is power and continue to strive for yourself as well as for your family. Importantly is also to treat yourself well.
“Whether you are a daughter, mother, sister, colleague or friend treat yourself well. Only if you treat yourself well you can treat others well.
“I want women to focus on themselves because women always think for others.
“If they focus on themselves, then they can become better and will be able to contribute much more,” Ong told the Buletin Mutiara team as the world always celebrates International Women’s Day (IWD) on March 8, that is today.
Apart from Ong, Sungai Pinang assemblyman Lim Siew Khim also sent her wishes to all the womenfolk out there.
Lim told women not to be afraid of life because they are a woman. She said in fact, women are strong at heart and that is their greatest strength.
“I hope everyone will recognise the significant contributions of women to society and strive to create a world where all women are valued and respected.
“Women are the future. So, embrace equity and foster inclusion. Happy International Women’s Day,” Lim said.
Meanwhile, Penang Island City Council (MBPP) councillor Connie Tan said women have the right to be themselves.
“Chase your dreams, love yourself, please yourself, and this is not called selfishness. Give, serve, and lead your life as best as you could.
“Let us, in sisterly love, face the challenges of life together,” Tan added.
Bukit Tambun assemblyman Goh Choon Aik encouraged women to believe in themselves at all times.
“Treat yourself well and make your life as wonderful as you could.
“Wishing women all over the world a Happy International Women’s Day and live your life boldly,” said Goh.
Regulatory affair executive Janaki Sandakumaran urged everyone to celebrate the beautiful qualities of a woman, not only on a specific day such as the IWD but every day.
“Let us all celebrate the kind, loving, brave, and strong nature of women not only today but every day.
“Wishing all the wonderful ladies a Happy International Women’s Day, keep inspiring each other!,” Janaki said.
Professional emcee and event planner, Evon Lye said that in this era, women can be independent and successful by continuously learning how to improve themselves.
“May all the women in the world be their own sun to illuminate themselves, without relying on anyone else.
“Be your ‘own’ princesses and queens,” Lye added.
It is learned that the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry has chosen ‘KASIH Wanita’ as the theme for this year’s IWD celebration.
‘KASIH’ stands for K-Kasih (Love), A-Akhlak Mulia (Noble), S-Sihat (Healthy), I-Ilmu (Knowledge), H-Harmoni (Harmony).
Story by Tanushalini Moroter