KUCHING: Some of the most efficient and successful responses to the Covid-19 pandemic were led by women, said Sarawak Bumiputera Women Entrepreneurs Chamber (Dewanita) chairwoman, Juita Darp.
“These include the health workers, nurses, doctors, caregivers and all other frontliners. One of the things which the pandemic has taught us is that when women lead, we see positive results,” she said.
Juita pointed out that this year’s International Women’s Day (IWD) highlighted how women could be equal partners in decision-making processes, especially those regarding policymaking, besides the other challenges brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic.
She added that the IWD should be an inspiration to collectively work towards reversal of long-standing inequalities which included the likes of unequal division of work at home, gender pay gap and unescapable undervaluation of work done by women.
“We need women’s representation that reflects all women and girls in their diversity and abilities, across all cultural, social, economic and political situations. It is the only way women will get real societal change that incorporate them in decision-making as equals and benefit us all.”
Juita added, “Throughout the years of my business journey, situations and business environments change constantly with all the challenges. I had to adapt to embrace the new normal in both my daily life as well as business life.
“During this pandemic, there are many struggles and obstacles as businesses are not doing well due to the restrictions. However, I keep telling myself to push through and work harder.
“I need to be physically and mentally strong. Keeping my mindset positive and being committed to my work helped me to overcome the work stress.”
Juita wished all the women in Sarawak, especially the frontliners, a Happy International Women’s Day 2021.
