State government allocates RM1.5 million to women's associations in Sabah

24 August 2024

KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah state government has allocated RM1.5 million to women's associations and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to implement more programmes and activities that benefit the development of women in the state.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor emphasised that this allocation reflects the government's strong support and appreciation for the vital roles and contributions of women in society.

"Therefore, recognising the importance of women's associations, I have approved an allocation of RM1.5 million to these associations and women's NGOs in the state, which will be coordinated by the Sabah Women’s Affairs Department (JHEWA).

"I hope this allocation will assist women's associations in carrying out programmes or activities that benefit women throughout the state. We certainly acknowledge the importance of women's roles and contributions in all fields towards the progress and development of the nation.

"This includes the development of family institutions, education, economy, administration, and the political arena," he said during the state-level Women's Day Celebration in Sabah on Friday night.

His speech was delivered by Deputy Chief Minister III and Minister of Works, Datuk Ir Shahelmey Yahya.

He added that the state government has also allocated RM6.36 million to JHEWA and RM700,000 to the Sabah Women's Advisory Council (MPWS) this year to implement various women's development projects and programs.

"Therefore, I want MPWS, as a think tank and advisory body regarding women's affairs, to be more aggressive and proactive in contributing new ideas and thoughts towards further empowering the participation and development of women in Sabah."

Meanwhile, JHEWA, as the state government agency responsible for women's affairs, is expected to continue implementing women's development programmes effectively and efficiently to meet targets and plans, he said.

He noted that many women today have achieved parity with men, including holding high positions in the national security forces—positions that were once dominated by men.

“Many are also becoming doctors, lawyers, engineers, and even pursuing careers as pilots and astronauts. This clearly demonstrates that women are also a catalyst for the nation's excellence, in line with the aspirations of a Civil Society.

“In the context of Sabah, we always support and recognize women to participate in policymaking and decision-making groups.

"Thus far, we have several women holding top positions, including in the state Cabinet, as well as leading in both the public and private sectors."

“I believe even more women will become leaders or heads in both the public and private sectors in the future,” he said.