Latest news with #SabahWomenEmpowermentProgramme
Daily Express
3 days ago
- Business
- Daily Express
Club on what it takes to empower Sabah women entrepreneurs
Published on: Thursday, June 26, 2025 Published on: Thu, Jun 26, 2025 Text Size: Noraini also called for the creation of a mentorship and networking platform for women entrepreneurs in Sabah. Kota Kinabalu: Kelab Usahawanita Sabah Chairperson Datuk Noraini Idris has called for the establishment of a more structured and inclusive support ecosystem to empower women entrepreneurs across Sabah, particularly those in rural areas. She proposed a number of initiatives aimed at strengthening the capabilities and reach of women-led enterprises in the State, including a women-focused entrepreneurial and skills training programme, encompassing intensive training on technical skills, financial management, business operations, digital marketing and innovation. 'Such programmes will help make us more competent in facing the challenges of today's dynamic marketplace,' she said at the 2025 Sabah Women Empowerment Programme at Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) here Tuesday. The event was officiated by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. Noraini also called for the creation of a mentorship and networking platform for women entrepreneurs in Sabah. 'We propose a mentorship initiative in collaboration with successful entrepreneurs and industry players, where experienced women entrepreneurs guide newcomers. This will promote the formation of professional and social networks to share knowledge and business opportunities,' she said. A third proposal was to enhance market access initiatives through the organisation of trade exhibitions and expos, enabling women entrepreneurs to connect with broader and more diverse markets. She also urged for targeted support for women entrepreneurs in rural industries, ensuring that empowerment programmes are tailored to the realities and constraints faced by rural women so that they are not left behind in the State's economic development. 'In line with the digital economy, we also need sustained support in digital marketing. Creating dedicated e-commerce platforms for Sabah's women entrepreneurs – similar to Shopee, Lazada or even a home-grown platform – can open wider market access, both nationally and internationally,' she said. Noraini proposed for the establishment of a one-stop centre in each district to centralise marketing, promotional activities, product display and training. 'These centres could serve as hubs for information sharing on funding opportunities, training programmes, and support services tailored to women entrepreneurs,' she explained. She also expressed appreciation for the impact of the Sabah Women Empowerment Programme, saying the participants gained invaluable insights and were inspired by success stories shared during the event. 'These stories have given us the courage to move forward and face complex economic challenges,' she said. Noraini also commended Majlis Amanah Rakyat (Mara) and its strategic partners for providing comprehensive support, particularly in exposing women to the entrepreneurial ecosystem, digital training and capacity building. 'We feel more prepared to enter larger markets and compete in an increasingly demanding economic landscape,' she said. According to her, the programme successfully fostered connections among participants, building a unique support community that will continue to empower its members. 'We believe this network will become a valuable asset as we strive for personal and business advancement,' she added. She also extended her heartfelt thanks to the Deputy Prime Minister for his leadership and support of women's economic empowerment. 'As women entrepreneurs in Sabah, we face a unique set of challenges, especially those related to access to capital and market networks – particularly for women in rural areas,' she said. While there are financing schemes available through agencies such as Mara and other government bodies, Noraini said access to information about these schemes remains limited. 'Many rural women entrepreneurs are unaware of the financing schemes available and the procedures involved in applying for them,' she said, adding that poor infrastructure and geographical isolation further hinder access to technology and digital platforms. 'In this context, programmes like this are crucial. They do not just impart knowledge and skills but also open the door to much-needed support from both government agencies and the private sector,' she said. The Sabah Women Empowerment Programme had created meaningful impact by boosting knowledge, skills and self-confidence among women in the State. 'This initiative aligns with the Government's goal of increasing women's participation in entrepreneurship and economic growth. Women are not just the backbone of families—they are the drivers of the national economy,' she said. She emphasised that such programmes demonstrate the Government's commitment to providing more opportunities, mentorship and support to ensure that women become competitive, resilient and successful entrepreneurs. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
New Straits Times
5 days ago
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Umno leaves issue of alleged corrupt assemblymen in MACC's hands
KOTA KINABALU: Umno trusts the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission in its investigations into alleged corruption involving Sabah assemblymen over the issuance of mineral exploration licenses in the state. Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said MACC was taking action based on strong information and credible witnesses, while the assemblymen have the right to present evidence in court to clear their names. "We place our trust in enforcement agencies, especially the MACC, not only to conduct investigations but to gather reliable evidence and witnesses. "If these two elements exist, then charges can be filed, and we trust the MACC to take the necessary action. "If an individual has witnesses and evidence to refute the prosecution's case, then they should clear their name in court," he told reporters after opening the Sabah Women Empowerment Programme here today. Zahid was responding to questions regarding Umno's stance on MACC's move to detain two Sabah assemblymen, who were later released on bail, one last Wednesday and another yesterday. Also detained was a businessman Datuk who was linked to videos exposing the corruption scandal. He too was later released on bail. All are expected to be charged by the end of the month, MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki had said. It is understood that one of the assemblymen is a state assistant minister while the other serves as the chairman of a Sabah government-linked company (GLC). Yesterday, Tanjung Batu assemblyman and Kalabakan member of parliament Datuk Andi Muhammad Suryady Bandy was reportedly among those called by the MACC to provide a statement in connection with the case. He is an Umno member who had his membership suspended after defying Sabah Umno's decision to withdraw from cooperation with Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) in January 2023. Zahid confirmed that Andi was still suspended.
New Straits Times
5 days ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
Zahid: Profit target a game changer for rural development
KOTA KINABALU: The Rural and Regional Development Ministry has made it mandatory for all agencies and subsidiaries under its purview to generate profits as part of a game-changing move introduced by the ministry. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said companies or subsidiaries that fail to record profits may face a management buy-out (MBO) or full closure. He said the ministry is implementing a comprehensive and radical strategy to ensure that every agency and subsidiary delivers meaningful impact. "We are giving them just one year to become profitable. I am not merely issuing orders — I am also hands-on, going to the ground to guide them," he said at a press conference after officiating the Sabah Women Empowerment Programme at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) here today. The programme, jointly organised by the ministry and Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA), was attended by about 1,500 women entrepreneurs from across Sabah. Also present were Deputy Minister of Rural and Regional Development Datuk Rubiah Wang, Deputy Minister of Women, Family and Community Development Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad, and MARA chairman Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki. Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as Minister of Rural and Regional Development, said each agency under the ministry has been given clear targets based on its operational focus. He said failure to meet key performance indicators (KPIs) would be investigated, while agencies achieving their targets would still be challenged to improve. "Achieving the KPI doesn't mean the job is done. We will ask again — what more can be done better?" he said. He added that the same approach is being applied in the education sector, particularly through MARA, with a new model that combines academic excellence with spiritual development. According to him, 57 MARA Junior Science Colleges (MRSMs) nationwide have adopted the Ulul Albab model, where Quran memorisation begins as early as Form 1, without neglecting science and professional subjects. "This not only produces excellent students but also individuals with noble character and strong values. This is the real game changer in education," he said. Meanwhile, Ahmad Zahid said the ministry has adopted an engagement-based approach by providing support, encouragement and motivation to employees at all levels. "When they feel appreciated, their work spirit rises. This is the new work culture we are introducing," he said. Earlier, in his speech, Ahmad Zahid also praised MARA for focusing not only on education but also on areas such as women's entrepreneurship. "Entrepreneurship is also prioritised, including empowering women in this sector, which aligns with our trust in women's abilities in financial management," he said.
New Straits Times
5 days ago
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Umno leaves issue of alleged corrupt assemblymen in MACC hands
KOTA KINABALU: Umno trusts the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission in its investigations into alleged corruption involving Sabah assemblymen over the issuance of mineral exploration licenses in the state. Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said MACC was taking action based on strong information and credible witnesses, while the assemblymen have the right to present evidence in court to clear their names. "We place our trust in enforcement agencies, especially the MACC, not only to conduct investigations but to gather reliable evidence and witnesses. "If these two elements exist, then charges can be filed, and we trust the MACC to take the necessary action. "If an individual has witnesses and evidence to refute the prosecution's case, then they should clear their name in court," he told reporters after opening the Sabah Women Empowerment Programme here today. Zahid was responding to questions regarding Umno's stance on MACC's move to detain two Sabah assemblymen, who were later released on bail, one last Wednesday and another yesterday. Also detained was a businessman Datuk who was linked to videos exposing the corruption scandal. He too was later released on bail. All are expected to be charged by the end of the month, MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki had said. It is understood that one of the assemblymen is a state assistant minister while the other serves as the chairman of a Sabah government-linked company (GLC). Yesterday, Tanjung Batu assemblyman and Kalabakan member of parliament Datuk Andi Muhammad Suryady Bandy was reportedly among those called by the MACC to provide a statement in connection with the case. He is an Umno member who had his membership suspended after defying Sabah Umno's decision to withdraw from cooperation with Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) in January 2023. Zahid confirmed that Andi was still suspended.
