KDCA Women’s Programme Champions Women as Drivers of Sustainability and Community Transformation

8 August 2025

KOTA KINABALU: The Kadazan-Dusun Cultural Association (KDCA) Women’s Council continues to empower women at the grassroots level through its latest programme, Women & Nature, held under the theme "From Home to Community."

The event, jointly organised by the KDCA Women’s Council branches of Tuaran, Tamparuli, and Kiulu, focused on recognising and strengthening the role of women as leaders in environmental sustainability, heritage preservation, and community-based economic growth.

Chairperson of the KDCA Central Women’s Council, Datuk Joanna Kitingan, commended the organising branches for their “meticulous planning and strong commitment” in ensuring the programme was inclusive, creative, and impactful.

Dr Rosalyn Gelunu (right), Chairperson of the Organising Committee and Chair of the KDCA Tuaran Women’s Council presenting a memento to Joanna

She said this during the launch of the programme, Women & Nature, held under the theme "From Home to Community" held at the Grand Merdeka Mall, Telipok.

“This is more than a ceremonial event,” said Joanna in her address. “It is a true manifestation of our mission, to empower women as leaders of sustainable environmental and cultural change, beginning at home.”

At the heart of the programme was the Dalai grain, a heritage crop of the Dusun people, which the Council is actively promoting as both a cultural identity and a competitive agro-product to support local economies.

“The cultivation of Dalai is not just about tradition,” she added. “It is about transforming our heritage into economic value while preserving our identity.”

Joanna highlighted that the programme aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles through grassroots-driven action.

A special appreciation was extended to the Sabah Women’s Affairs Department (JHEWA), represented at the event by Deputy Director Azliana Misrah, for their continued partnership and funding support.

“JHEWA’s support goes beyond funding, it is a recognition of women’s role as drivers of sustainability,” said Joanna.

She affirmed the KDCA Women’s Council’s commitment to expanding joint programmes with JHEWA, strengthening local branch capacity through mentorship and shared resources, and preserving cultural heritage as a foundation for sustainable community development.

The programme also acknowledged the vital role of women in shaping the future. Joanna described women as guardians of nature and culture, particularly through traditional practices like Dalai cultivation, and as economic leaders capable of turning heritage products into competitive and marketable assets.

“When women unite, they create a network that transforms the destiny of a community,” she said, reinforcing the Council’s vision of empowerment through collective action.

Joanna expressed her gratitude to all contributors, including the Dalai Practitioners’ Association of Sabah and the Management of Grand Merdeka Mall, for their support and collaboration.

“Let this not be a one-day event, but a catalyst for lasting transformation,” she concluded, adding, “Together, let us build sustainable communities through creativity, innovation, and inclusive spirit.”