International Women's Day Highlights Women's Significant Contributions - Ewon

9 March 2025

KOTA KINABALU: The Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, Datuk Ewon Benedick, stated that the celebration of International Women's Day each year highlights the significant contributions of women to national development.

He remarked that the sacrifices and leadership of women are not limited to their roles as mothers; they also play vital roles as leaders who contribute to the progress of the nation.

“Women are not merely supporters of leaders; they can also become leaders in various sectors such as public service, corporate affairs, and politics.

“There are many success stories of women in national leadership and entrepreneurship, which is why the celebration of International Women's Day is essential as a mark of appreciation for their contributions,” he said.

He made these remarks while speaking at the International Women's Day celebration organised by the Women’s Movement of the Pakatan Harapan (PH) at Raia Hotel, here, yesterday.

Ewon mentioned that the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (MEDC) provides various financing schemes specifically for women entrepreneurs through its agencies.

“Among these are the Ikhtiar Financing Scheme by Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM), the TEKUN-Women Financing Scheme (TekunNita), the BRPlus-I BizLady Programme by Bank Rakyat, the Successful Women Entrepreneurship Engagement Talent (SWEET) Programme by Pernas, and the UDA Biznita Programme by UDA Holdings Berhad,” he said.

He hopes that the women of PH Sabah can help ensure that all entrepreneurial initiatives specifically for women are communicated to members and the wider community in the state.

“If the Women’s Movement of PH Sabah requires a specific briefing on the financing schemes for women, the women leaders can request a session to be organised.

“In this regard, I am ready to provide support to ensure that all ministry initiatives reach the target groups,” he added.

Ewon, who is also the Chairman of PH Sabah and President of the United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO), expressed appreciation for the efforts of the Women’s Movement of PH Sabah in organising the International Women's Day celebration, which unites all women in the PH coalition.

Regarding the role of women in politics, he emphasised that women are capable of leading the country, including standing as candidates in elections based on their leadership qualities and capabilities.

“In UPKO, we have nominated several women candidates in the last elections. I hope that after discussions regarding seat distribution within PH Sabah are concluded, not only UPKO but also other component parties in the government will provide opportunities for more women candidates,” he stated.

However, he stressed that while the capabilities and leadership of women are being highlighted, meritocracy will remain a priority in the selection of candidates for the upcoming elections.