KUCHING: Women across the globe celebrated International Women’s Day (IWD) on March 8.
Historically, IWD has been around for over a century. It was honoured for the first time in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland on March 19, 1911.
As the focal point in the movement for women’s rights, the day celebrates women’s achievements and raises awareness about women’s equality. Besides that, it also lobbies for accelerated gender parity and raises funds for female-focused charities.
This year, with the “Choose To Challenge” campaign theme, IWD urges women to challenge themselves and fight gender bias and inequality to help collectively create an inclusive world.
Today, let’s hear some inspiring words of advice from some of the women interviewed by New Sarawak Tribune.
Dr Zuraini Seruji (academician)
We must continue to be independent, strong and disciplined as we continue to challenge ourselves to be the very best. When we put our minds to achieve something, we must not give up easily even if there are obstacles along the way.
Nur Syafiqah Bisnu (airline captain)
No matter how small or big the role that we play, we are the society’s backbone. I believe that challenges and changes come hand in hand. It’s okay to feel scared because it amplifies the fact that we are onto something important.
Alia Maulydia (accountant)
We should always remember that we are beautiful, worthy, important, special, unique, wonderful, talented and irreplaceable! Remember to do things that makes you feel good and give you purpose regardless of what others may think.
Carissa Ying Ying Sammy (lawyer)
I wish all women will have power over themselves as there are more than what we perceive of ourselves. Challenges define and ensure that you always grow to be better!
Norhayati Rosli (teacher)
When we face challenges, remember that the challenging situation does not last forever. It is merely a moment in time. We must keep our heads held up high come what may.
Hani Iryani Bonny (lawyer)
There is nothing more important than to stay focused. You have to know what you want in order to get what you want. As a practising criminal lawyer in Kuching, I can say that there are not many women in this field. Women are naturally equipped with different intuition and instinct from men. I personally will tap into it and it has proven that my womanly instinct helps me make great life changing decisions.
Sharifah Nadzirah Wan Hamid (academician)
We are mightier than we think so the best gift is believing in ourselves. Life is full of challenges but we must remember to rest when we are tired and fight the battle another day with better strategy to achieve what we want.
