By Karen Bong
KUCHING, July 7: The scope of work and policies being done to improve the wellbeing of women, children and the community in Sarawak is truly impressive and sets a good example for women in action, praises world president of Associated Country Women of the World (ACWW) Magdie De Kock.
Magdie, who hails from South Africa and is attending the 13th ACWW Area Conference for Southeast Asia and the Far East held here recently, said she felt “secure” in Kuching and this is clearly a result of what Sarawak has achieved successfully for the community.
“I am honoured to have the opportunity to come here. You are taking a very good care of women and (it is) wonderful to see what you are achieving here.
“When we look at the words wellbeing, early childhood and women, and after your very informative briefing, it makes so much more sense to me. And I have only one word, and that word is impressive,” she said.
Magdie highlighted this when leading a delegation from ACWW to pay a courtesy visit to Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Well Being Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah at Wisma Wanita in Semariang here today.
Earlier, Fatimah gave an overall briefing on the achievements of Sarawak women as well as the government’s policies and efforts towards improving, uplifting and empowering Sarawak’s citizens.
They include the Kenyalang Gold Card (KGC) for senior citizens, Endowment Fund Sarawak (EFS) for all Sarawakian newborns, Post-Natal Assistance (BIB) for new mothers, special annual grant (GTK) for early childhood institutions, Special Aid for Kidney Patients (BPBP) for health as well as various other initiatives.
Impressed with Sarawak’s inclusive and diverse policies, Magdie acknowledged that the success that Sarawak has achieved required the collaboration and involvement of all sectors of society “because having a vision is only one part, but to implement it is another part”.
“It is very clear that you have succeeded. In ACWW, our theme for this new term is ‘Diversity is Our Strength’ which you are also applying in your work by having diverse projects and approaching it in diverse ways.
“Training is there but you are also reaching out to people in other places. This approach is really very successful and it is setting a very good example in line with ACWW’s women in action. And I see that here,” she added.
Magdie also congratulated Sarawak for keeping up with the global trends in transitioning to digitalisation instead of sitting back and doing nothing when the Covid-19 pandemic hit.
“You have covered many aspects of what it is to be women, in all spheres and the fact that you are thinking of the dignity of women also impresses me because that is so important.
“I would like to wish you well for future endeavours because it is clear to me that you will not slow down but expand further with the resources you have and meet the needs of the people,” she further commended.
Magdie also extended her thanks and appreciation for the warm hospitality throughout her visit here.
Later, she presented the Ministry with the latest edition of the History of ACWW book that celebrates 94 years of what women have contributed to society worldwide.
During the visit, Magdie also officiated the Community Sewing Skill Centre Kuching, while Fatimah launched the Spa and Beauty Training Class at Wisma Wanita. — DayakDaily
