Motherhood Programme Empowers Women Through Shared Experiences and Leadership

21 May 2026

KOTA KINABALU: Women who attended the “Motherhood, Leadership and Legacy” programme held in conjunction with Mother’s Day at Zara’s Boutique Hotel were given a valuable opportunity to gain inspiration, practical guidance and empowerment through the sharing of real-life experiences by accomplished women leaders.

Speaking during the programme, Datuk Eliza Goh, owner of Zara's Boutique Hotel, said the initiative was not merely a Mother’s Day celebration, but a meaningful platform aimed at empowering women and encouraging the continuation of similar programmes in the future.

Eliza said previous programmes organised under the same initiative, such as “Beauty, Confidence and Communication”, were open to women from all walks of life, including working professionals, entrepreneurs and business owners.

“The focus was to help women build confidence, whether in participating in programmes, engaging with authorities, or interacting with the public,” she said.

Building on that foundation, she explained that the latest programme centred on motherhood and the unique challenges faced by women balancing careers and family responsibilities.

“Motherhood itself is a skill, but being both a career woman and a mother at the same time requires a dual set of skills,” she said.

Eliza noted that the programme brought together women from different generations and backgrounds, each with extensive life experiences and valuable insights to share.

Among them was Datuk Adeline Leong, in her seventies, who has served in various capacities including as A Librarian and President of Kota Kinabalu Municipal Council.

“The women we selected are truly remarkable. Their experiences are extensive and invaluable, and having them here to share their knowledge and personal journeys is something money cannot buy,” she said.

She added that it was rare to have such a panel openly discuss personal struggles and offer guidance to others facing similar challenges.

Datuk Eliza highlighted Dr Rachel Kumar’s willingness to speak candidly about difficulties in her personal life, describing it as an uncommon but meaningful form of support for women.

The programme also featured Anne Antah owner of Chanteek Borneo , who shared insights into the “Mama Jarum” initiative, which focuses on uplifting rural women by equipping them with sewing skills to improve their economic opportunities and family livelihoods.

“As a community, we can uplift others. By giving women skills such as sewing, we can help improve their economic situation, their livelihoods, and the future of their children,” she said.

Eliza said that for the past 15 years, her efforts in women’s empowerment had focused largely on improving women’s economic well-being so they could better support and educate their children.

She shared that some women who previously struggled are now seeing their children enter university as a result of the opportunities and support made available through such initiatives.

“These are meaningful contributions to society,” she said.

Eliza also encouraged the organiser Siti Shaqila Zamzam and other women leaders to continue creating similar platforms where women could share experiences and inspire others.

“Every woman has valuable experiences to share, and platforms like this allow those stories to inspire others. These opportunities are truly priceless,” she said.