By Nur Ashikin Louis
KUCHING, July 5: The Sarawak government has put in place numerous initiatives and assistance for Sarawak women to develop their capacities, capabilities and competencies, says Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said women non-governmental organisations (NGOs) are very talented and agile in helping to accomplish Sarawak’s development goals.
“You can reach the most vulnerable or disaffected people in our community and find innovative solutions to tackle problems,” he said in a video message during the 13th Associated Country Women of the World (ACWW) Area Conference for South East Asia and the Far East held at a local hotel here today.
Abang Johari further said that the conference would serve as an invaluable platform for the delegates to share information and knowledge, to exchange experiences, to network in order to advance our societies and countries.
He cited a quote by Malala Yousofzai, the youngest Noble Peace Prize recipient: “There are two powers in the world; one is the sword and the other is the pen. There is a third power stronger than both, that of women.”
Abang Johari also expressed his appreciation to Raja Permaisuri Agong Tuanku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah for her presence to the conference.
The conference, themed ‘Diversity is Our Strength’ was the fifth ever hosted by the Sarawak Federation of Women’s Institutes (SFWI).
Amongst those present were the Sarawak Governor’s wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Raghad Kurdi Taib who is also SFWI patron; the Sarawak Premier’s wife Datuk Amar Jumaani Tuanku Bujang; Sarawak Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah; ACWW world president Magdie De Kock; and ACWW South East Asia and Far East area president Norjanah Razali. — DayakDaily
