KUCHING: Women are an important asset to the state because they contribute to the growth of its economy and development.
Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng pointed this out during the first International Women’s Day Multiracial Costumes Photography Contest at Kuching Waterfront yesterday.
The contest was co-organised by the Sarawak Federation of Chinese Women Association and Pan-Chen Lau’s Clan Association of Kuching, Samarahan, Serian Divisions.
Wee added women had contributed not only to family wellbeing but also generated income for the state in the last 57 years since its independence.
“They participated in the labour force to boost the state’s industrial growth and many are also civil servants, professionals and highly skilled labour that help our society to progress,” he said.
Wee pointed out that women were also an integral part of nation-building.
“I believe Sarawak’s government agenda will always include women’s voices,” he said.
Wee added that in today’s world, women could lead in any position if given the opportunity.
“When it comes to the notion of service above all, I personally think that the women can perform better than the men.
“Due to their motherly nature, women are more willing to put the interest of others above their own, making them more selfless than others.
“Look at your own mother, grandmother, sisters and wife. Had they not sacrificed themselves for your sake, your path to achieve greatness would have been more turbulent,” he pointed out.
Wee added most importantly, what women needed was more empowerment from the society.
He commended the Sarawak Federation of Chinese Women Association on its various achievements in the past 39 years.
“You have
also played an important role in nurturing women to achieve their fullest
potential and indeed, has touched and improved the lives of many Sarawakian
women.
“Those who are successful are now giving back to society in their own ways
whether at home, in the workplace or the community,” said Wee.
Also present were Sarawak Federation of Chinese Women Association chairwoman Lau Chiew Eng and Pan-Chen Lau’s Clan Association of Kuching, Samarahan, Serian Divisions chairman Kevin Law.
