Women as Catalysts of Sustainability: JHEWA Launches ‘Women & Nature’ Programme

8 August 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Women must be empowered as key agents of sustainability, not only within their households but throughout their communities, said the Director of the Department of Women’s Affairs (JHEWA), Haslina Ismail, during the official launch of the “Women & Nature: From Home to Community” programme.

Officiated by JHEWA and held in collaboration with the Central KDCA Women’s Council, the initiative underscores the evolving role of women in driving ecological, cultural, and economic transformation, rooted in heritage and community-based innovation.

Speaking at the launch on her behalf, JHEWA Deputy Director Azliana Misrah expressed deep appreciation for being part of a programme that reflects the multifaceted roles of women today, not only as community leaders but also as caregivers and stewards of environmental and cultural heritage.

Datuk Joanna Kitingan KDCA women's Council chairperson ( middle ) presenting a memento made from Dalai to Azlina while Dr Rosalyn Gelunu organising committee chair looks on

“This programme speaks to the heart of JHEWA’s mission, to empower women as change-makers for sustainable living, from their homes right through to the broader community,” she said.

The programme held at the Grand Merdeka Mall is made possible through a Special Grant from JHEWA awarded to the Central KDCA Women’s Council, with implementation led by the KDCA Women’s Councils of Tuaran, Tamparuli, and Kiulu.

According to the Director, JHEWA’s support extends beyond financial assistance. It also involves strategic partnerships aimed at strengthening women’s roles as custodians of tradition, the natural environment, and local economies.

The initiative encourages grassroots innovation using local resources, such as recycled soap and traditional Dalai-based crafts, while also fostering networks that connect micro-entrepreneurs, industries, and the wider community.

The programme also highlights the significance of the Dalai grain, a traditional Dusun crop, as both a cultural emblem and a symbol of ecological wisdom. By promoting Dalai as a heritage product with modern commercial value, the initiative seeks to preserve indigenous knowledge while offering sustainable livelihood opportunities for women.

“Through this initiative, we aim not only to protect cultural heritage but also to turn it into real economic prospects for women,” she added.

The programme will culminate on 29 August 2025 at Grand Merdeka Mall, with two major events: a Creative Traditional Children’s Costume Showcase and a Wild Flower Arrangement Competition.

The public is encouraged to attend and support this celebration of local culture, biodiversity, and women’s contributions to environmental sustainability, especially in the lead-up to Malaysia’s Merdeka celebrations.

“Let this be more than a one-off event. Let it be a spark for long-term action, where women lead in the green economy, Dalai becomes a heritage icon, and communities thrive as stewards of nature,” Haslina urged.

The Director also commended the KDCA Women’s Councils involved for their inclusive and high-impact planning, as well as key strategic partners including Grand Merdeka Mall and the Sabah Dalai Community Practitioners Association (KPDS), for supporting meaningful corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

The Women & Nature: From Home to Community programme is poised to become a model for grassroots-driven, women-led sustainability efforts across Sabah.