Celebrating Women’s Leadership and Unity in Sabah

7 March 2026

KOTA KINABALU: Former Api-Api Assemblywoman Datuk Seri Christina Liew lauded the steadfast dedication of Datuk Susan Wong Siew Guen, President of the United Sabah Chinese Communities Association of Kota Kinabalu (USCCAKK), in organising the annual International Women’s Day celebration and Appreciation Dinner.

Since 2019, Wong has brought together women from 15 Chinese clan associations affiliated with USCCAKK to honour their contributions.

Wong led the Women’s Section, under the guidance of Tay Siew Hua, to host this meaningful event for the eighth year running at Sabah Hakka Hall on Friday night.

"Datuk Susan has consistently observed International Women’s Day to recognise women’s vital roles in society and the state since becoming USCCAKK President in 2019," said Liew, founder of the Sabah United Chinese Women’s Association in 1995.

In her speech, Wong paid tribute to Liew as a prominent woman leader and announced her as the Most Outstanding Woman 2024, an accolade awarded by her association in celebration of International Women’s Day.

"Datuk Seri Christina is a longstanding friend and supporter of the Women’s Section of USCCAKK. We are truly grateful for her unwavering commitment," Wong remarked.

The evening was graced by distinguished guests including Puan Sri Joanne Ho (wife of the President of the Federation of Chinese Associations Sabah, Tan Sri T.C. Goh), Datin Seri Stella Yong (wife of former Chief Minister Datuk Seri Yong Teck Lee), Datin Foo Choon Pang (wife of the Chairman of Asia Times), Sabah Plumbers Association President Carmen Wong, and Women Section Advisers such as Datuk Nancy Ho, Kapitan Dr Tan Kai Lee, Datin Vicky Yee, former Kapitan Datuk Eliza Goh, and Datin Mary Wong. Honourees included Ho, Carmen, and Dr Tan as Most Outstanding Women for 2023, with Yee and Goh recognised in 2025.

Guests enjoyed a vibrant programme of songs, lion dance, cultural performances, and the musical talents of emerging saxophonist Zara Goh Flintoft, who performed hits like "Conga" and "It’s Raining Men."

USCCAKK encompasses 15 Chinese clan associations, including Sze Yi, Teo Chew, Nam Ann, Hokkien, San Chiang, Hin Ann, Tai Poo, Northern Chinese, Ann Koai, Lung Yen, Foo Chow, Eng Choon, Hainan, and Kwong Siew.