Sarawak Women’s Day 2024 Celebrates Local Innovators and Technologists, Emphasizing Women Empowerment and Prosperity
Sibu, Sarawak – On August 10, 2024, the Sarawak Women’s Day 2024 celebration with the theme “Sarawak Women in Innovation and Technology,” paying tribute to the remarkable contributions of Sarawakian women to the state’s progress. The event, hosted at RH Hotel Sibu, attracted over a thousand attendees, with thousands more joining virtually, underscoring the widespread support for the empowerment of women in the region.
Organized by the Jabatan Wanita dan Keluarga Sarawak (JWKS), the celebration was a vibrant acknowledgment of the pioneering roles women have played in the fields of innovation and technology. The event aimed to inspire and empower women to continue breaking barriers and driving change in these critical areas. In his keynote address, Sarawak’s Premier, Yang Berhormat Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari Bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive society and supporting women’s empowerment across all sectors.
Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah, in her speech, expressed gratitude for the Premier’s steadfast support of initiatives aimed at empowering women. She highlighted the alignment of the event’s theme with the Post-COVID19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), which emphasizes sustainable development and social inclusion.
JWKS had recently published a book entitled ‘Sarawak Women in Innovation and Technology’ featuring the accomplishments of 26 remarkable Sarawakian women in the fields of innovation and technology was a key highlight. Their outstanding accomplishments in a variety of professions were highlighted in this inspirational compilation, which will undoubtedly inspire upcoming generations.
The private sector also took part in the event, expressing their support for gender equality alongside companies such as Pertama Ferroalloys Sdn Bhd. Mr. Yuki Nakamura, board director and general manager of Pertama Ferroalloys Sdn Bhd, and Hajah Siti Aisah Adenan, senior vice president for corporate services of Sarawak Energy Berhad, discussed programs such as mentorship opportunities, training courses, and gender-lens policies to empower women in their organizations.
Aside from the formal sessions, the event included a variety of activities highlighting Sarawak’s communal spirit and cultural richness. Attendees participated in a community outreach session at a Sibu homeless transit shelter, demonstrating the event’s overall dedication to social responsibility. A product showcase highlighting Sarawak’s culinary legacy, with local specialties such as Dabai and Instant Linut, delighting attendees and promoting the region’s distinct cultural offerings. The event culminated in an awards ceremony honoring exceptional Sarawakian women for their achievements to social action, entrepreneurship, and leadership.
The event closed with an awards ceremony honoring outstanding Sarawakian women for their achievements to women’s leadership, entrepreneurship, social activism, and special achievements as well as outstanding organizations. The winners included Umang Nangku Jabu for Women’s Leadership, Lim Hii Ching for Women Entrepreneurship, Sultan Patimah Ismail for Women Social Activism, and Associate Prof Dr. Siti Kudnie Sahari for Special Achievement. These recognitions served as a striking reminder of the impact that dedicated and innovative women have on their communities and the state as a whole.
In his closing remarks, the Premier shared his vision for the future, focusing on the importance of social policies and technological advancements in ensuring a sustainable and inclusive future. He announced new initiatives, such as free university education for Sarawakians starting in 2026 and the introduction of renewable energy projects. Recognizing the indispensable contributions of women, the Premier emphasized their capacity to spearhead innovation and catalyze societal transformation.
The Sarawak Women’s Day 2024 event not only acknowledged women’s successes in innovation and technology, but also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating an environment in which women may thrive. It was a day of empowerment, inspiration, and recognition, paving the way for even greater contributions from Sarawakian women in the years to come.
