Sarawak’s Dynamic Women Programme provides RM500 capital for home businesses, helping women affected by job loss and domestic violence achieve economic independence.
KAPIT: The Dynamic Women Programme continues to make significant strides in empowering Sarawak women economically since its post-pandemic introduction.
Minister of Women, Family and Community Development Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri revealed the programme has delivered nearly RM4 million in total aid value across Sarawak since its 2023 launch.
She explained the initiative emerged after identifying numerous women unable to work due to caregiving responsibilities for children or elderly parents.
Many participants also faced challenges including divorce and domestic violence situations.
“We saw that many women could not go to work because they had to care for their families,” Nancy said during the Kasih Wanita Advocacy Programme at Dewan Masyarakat Melayu.
The programme provides RM500 capital for home-based businesses without requiring formal licensing.
Participants have launched diverse ventures including pickle production, biscuit baking, and sewing services.
During today’s event, 317 Kapit recipients received RM158,500 in total assistance.
Nancy confirmed the Dynamic Women Programme now integrates with Kasih Wanita initiatives and violence prevention awareness campaigns.
She highlighted Malaysia’s participation in the global Elimination of Violence Against Women observance on November 25.
“Last year, the ministry collaborated with Putrajaya Holdings, JKR and various other agencies to light up bridges and buildings, including the KL Tower, in orange,” she noted.
More Sabah and Sarawak locations will join this year’s orange illumination campaign.
Nancy encouraged widespread wearing of orange attire on November 25 to demonstrate solidarity against gender-based violence.
She also promoted the Local Social Support Service which provides counselling access for women experiencing domestic pressure.
“This is our effort to raise awareness and provide support to those in need,” she concluded. – Bernama
