29-06-2025
Mayor Wee calls for collective action against violence towards women
Wee (centre, front row) poses with others during the programme.
KUCHING (June 29): People are urged to change mindsets, reinforce respect in homes and schools, and ensure that every girl and woman feels seen, heard and protected.
In making the call, Kuching South Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said violence against women is not just a women's issue — it is a human issue, a societal issue, and one that requires all of us to speak up, stand together and act with compassion and conviction.
'While we cannot change what has happened, we can take meaningful steps to ensure that no (such) tragedy will happen again,' he said when opening 'Pink Wings Protection Programme', jointly organised by JCI Kuching YMM Sarawak and Saberkas Sentosa at the MBKS Auditorium today.
Wee pointed out that the programme represents a step in the right direction — raising awareness, educating communities and empowering individuals to stand up for the safety, dignity and respect for all women.
He noted that the message behind the event is both timely and urgent, especially following the recent tragic incident involving a female university student in Cyberjaya, reminding all of the the real and pressing dangers many women face every day.
On behalf of MBKS, he extended heartfelt condolences to the victim's family, praying that that they find strength in this difficult time.
According to Wee, the programme aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 5 on Gender Equality and SDG 10 on Reducing Inequality.
He said these are commitments that must translate into real policies, real conversations and real change on the ground, creating a society where women are safe, respected and given equal opportunities to thrive.
In Sarawak, he said the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 reflects this vision, ensuring that no one is left behind, especially women.
He added that the Sarawak government has made it a priority to transform the lives of women not only through social support but also by opening up new opportunities in education, business, leadership and public service.
'We are seeing this transformation take shape across various sectors. More women are taking on leadership roles, managing businesses, leading community initiatives and contributing actively to the state's progress.'
Through PCDS, he noted, programmes have been introduced to support women entrepreneurs, upskill the workforce, provide childcare support and build confidence among young women and girls to step forward as changemakers.
At MBKS, Wee said they are committed to making the city safe, inclusive and empowering for everyone.
'We have partnered with community groups, youth organisations and NGOs to implement grassroots programmes that champion women's health, promote safety in public spaces and support youth led empowerment initiatives,' he added.
Addressing the young participants, the mayor said their actions, voice and courage matter, expressing hope that the programme would inspire them to advocate for what is right, to create safe spaces and support their friends and communities with kindness and respect.
He also thanked the organisers for bringing them together for this cause, uniting them across organisations, generations, and sectors and making a real difference
'Awareness is powerful. When we come together like this — to talk, to learn, and to take action — we are taking real steps to build a safer society.
'A society where no woman feels unsafe walking alone. Where no girl grows up thinking her voice doesn't matter. Where protection and empowerment go hand in hand,' he pointed out.
Wee stressed that women deserve not just to be protected, but to be uplifted — to be free to live without fear, to pursue their dreams, and to thrive in a supportive and safe environment.
'Let this not be a one off event, but the start of a continuous journey towards a safer, more equal and more compassionate society for all. Let us continue to spread this message beyond this event.
'Let us be the voice for those who feel voiceless. Let us extend a hand to those in need. And most importantly, let us keep building a Kuching where everyone — regardless of gender — feels safe, respected and empowered,' he said. lead Pink Wings Protection Programme violence wee hong seng women
