Apply for government grants to empower women, minister tells Sarawak NGOs
by Jude Toyat · Borneo Post OnlineKUCHING (April 9): Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in Sarawak have been urged to apply promptly for government grants to implement programmes that empower women at the grassroots level.
In making this call, Minister of Women, Family and Community Development Dato Sri Nancy Shukri said the ministry has developed the National Women’s Policy (NWP) and the Women’s Development Action Plan (WDAP), structured over a five-year period and focused on four main pillars: economy, leadership, safety, and well-being.
“These plans outline key objectives for women’s development and are translated into programmes that NGOs can organise across the states.
“Through today’s programme, NGOs are made aware of the funding opportunities available to implement their initiatives.
“Each NGO has its own niche based on its activities, so they can choose the programmes that suit them.
“We advise them to apply quickly, as there is a specific application period. Once the allocations are distributed, the funding may no longer be available,” she said after officiating the inaugural Women’s Synergy: Empowering The Grassroots (Third Sector) initiative here.
The programme showcased services available under the Department of Women’s Development and brought together around 300 NGOs.
Nancy emphasised the importance of ensuring women across the state are aware of government services and programmes available to them and encouraged NGOs to disseminate this information within their communities.
“NGOs, or the third sector, play a vital role in Malaysia’s social development ecosystem.
“They are closest to the people, listening to community needs and often being the first to assist those in need.
“I see NGOs as agents of change at the grassroots level, complementing government efforts.
“When the government and NGOs work together, the impact is far greater and more meaningful,” she said.
Nancy also highlighted the significance of NWP and WDAP in translating policy into actionable initiatives.
She noted that women now make up almost half of Malaysia’s population, 16.3 million or 47.5 per cent of 34.3 million people.
In Sarawak, women are estimated at 1.22 million or 48.8 per cent of the state’s population.
“These statistics illustrate the vast potential and the importance of ensuring every woman has access to the opportunities they deserve,” Nancy said.
She further highlighted several programmes implemented by the Department of Women’s Development, including Program Perantisan Kepimpinan Wanita (Perantis) to build women’s confidence and leadership skills, Skuad Waja to raise awareness on bullying, sexual harassment, and community safety, and the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) initiative, which ensures women’s voices are represented in discussions on peace and national security.
She also encouraged the NGOs present today to fully utilise the Special Treasury Assistance (BKP), a government initiative to strengthen the role of NGOs as strategic partners in community development.
“With their experience and commitment, NGOs can help produce initiatives that truly address the needs of the people,” she added.
Touching on women’s health and mental well-being, Nancy highlighted services such as HPV and mammogram screenings, as well as 24/7 counselling services like Talian Kasih 15999.
“Sarawak’s strength lies not only in its physical development but also in its people, especially women who make countless sacrifices, nurture families, and lead community activities.
“That is why the ministry continually ensures that programmes reach women at the grassroots level.
“My vision for Malaysian women is clear ― I want to see more women stepping up as leaders, achieving financial independence, and breaking through any glass ceilings.
“There is no limit to what women can achieve. Our shared responsibility is to ensure that the path is accessible and wide open for all,” she added.