BY JACQUELINE DAVID
KUCHING: Social activist Manjeet Sidhu said she felt humbled when she was awarded the ‘Anugerah Kasih Wanita Harmoni’ in conjunction with International Women’s Day, yesterday.
Manjeet, 54, who is president of Pertubuhan Pembangunan Insan Sarawak (PPIS) said she was equally honoured by the award.
“I am sincerely honoured by the award, finding inspiration in the values of integrity, compassion, and dedication. I am committed to fostering positive change through inclusivity, community empowerment, and sustainable development.
“I am also grateful to the platforms, from councillorship to NGO president and committed MPS (Majlis Persosialan Sarawak) member, that moulded me and my passion to help others,” she said.
“This monumental achievement not only celebrates personal excellence but also casts a radiant light on the underprivileged and displaced children who are at the very core of PPIS’s mission,” she added.
“I stand before you, a representative of the tireless warriors at PPIS, immensely thankful for the solid rock of support from our state government, the warm embrace of fellow Sarawakians, and the expansive community that has stood by our side.”
Manjeet also thanked the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for his unwavering support and recognition of women’s roles and achievements in Malaysia.
Additionally, she extended her gratitude to Women, Family, and Community Development Minister, Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri, for her invaluable support in uplifting women and championing their endeavours.
Former mayor of Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Datuk James Chan, under whom Manjeet had been a councillor for six years, said her personality as a person who always likes to help others, befits the award.
“She is one true Sarawakian lady who would tackle problems of all races tactfully, with dignity and give an excellent service to the community at large.
“I congratulate her on her recent award at the Women’s Day event, she is the only Sarawakian being recognised for the award in 2024. Her enthusiasm and contribution to serve the people and community at large signifies Manjeet’s dedication and passion which should be recognised and supported wholeheartedly,” said Chan.
Meanwhile, another figure who had inspired Manjeet to serve humanity is Datuk Dr. Jasvinder Singh Dhillio, PPIS Sikh Perak.
“Manjeet has always been keen and been doing a lot of charity work all the while since I have known her more than 10 years ago.
“She also joined me to Sri Aman Hospital, whereby I performed cataract operations at the hospital. This was under the Ministry of Health (MOH)
“One fine day, I spoke to Manjeet about her forming a similar NGO in Sarawak. So we came up with similar name, PPIS. She managed to form and she aced it in a few years. I always knew and had a sixth sense that she will do her best, and she did it,” he said.
The 2024 International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration, themed ‘Women Exalted, Nation Glorious’ was held at Sunway Pyramid Convention Centre (SPCC) in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, and was graced by the Prime Minister on Friday (March 8).
The event aims to honour women as catalysts for national excellence, aligning with the aspirations of Malaysia Madani.
