Bronica Sikula Calls for Fair Development in Sabah on International Women’s Day

8 March 2026

KOTA KINABALU: In celebration of International Women’s Day 2026, Bronica Sikula, DAP Sabah Women Chief, emphasised the importance of equitable development for Sabah to truly empower women and strengthen the region.

Bronica, who led a community initiative today by distributing flowers in six areas including Kota Kinabalu, Inanam, Kapayan, Kota Marudu, Keningau, and Tenom, said the gesture was a symbol of appreciation for women’s vital contributions to families and society.

“Women are among the main strengths within our society,” she stated. “In many families, women play essential roles in raising children, supporting household economies, and maintaining community well-being.”

She also highlighted ongoing government aid programmes such as the Rahmah Basic Assistance (SARA), which has helped alleviate some financial burdens for women from low-income families amidst rising living costs.

However, Bronica stressed that assistance alone is insufficient. “Fundamental development issues, especially in Sabah, must be addressed,” she said. “Many women still face challenges such as limited healthcare facilities, restricted economic opportunities, and inadequate infrastructure.”

Bronica called for the full realisation of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and the resolution of Sabah’s 40% revenue rights, emphasising that these steps are vital for fairer and more balanced development.

“Granting Sabah its rightful rights will enable us to improve infrastructure, boost the local economy, and create more opportunities for women to advance,” she added.

Reflecting on this year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” Bronica concluded, “When we provide justice, opportunities, and support to women and to the regions forming the foundation of Malaysia, our country will become stronger.” emphasised the importance of equitable development for Sabah to truly empower women and strengthen the region.

Bronica, who led a community initiative today by distributing flowers in six areas including Kota Kinabalu, Inanam, Kapayan, Kota Marudu, Keningau, and Tenom, said the gesture was a symbol of appreciation for women’s vital contributions to families and society.

“Women are among the main strengths within our society,” she stated. “In many families, women play essential roles in raising children, supporting household economies, and maintaining community well-being.”

She also highlighted ongoing government aid programmes such as the Rahmah Basic Assistance (SARA), which has helped alleviate some financial burdens for women from low-income families amidst rising living costs.

However, Bronica stressed that assistance alone is insufficient. “Fundamental development issues, especially in Sabah, must be addressed,” she said. “Many women still face challenges such as limited healthcare facilities, restricted economic opportunities, and inadequate infrastructure.”

Bronica called for the full realisation of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and the resolution of Sabah’s 40% revenue rights, emphasising that these steps are vital for fairer and more balanced development.

“Granting Sabah its rightful rights will enable us to improve infrastructure, boost the local economy, and create more opportunities for women to advance,” she added.

Reflecting on this year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” Bronica concluded, “When we provide justice, opportunities, and support to women and to the regions forming the foundation of Malaysia, our country will become stronger.”