The state government has always been supportive of the programmes that advocate gender equality and has even come up with policies that enhance the well-being of women.
Penang will be celebrating the International Women’s Day (IWD) at a grand scale throughout March until the beginning of April.
Many programmes are lined up to raise awareness on gender equality and to appreciate women for their contribution.
Penang Women Development Corporation ( PWDC ) together with the state Economic Planning Unit, State Protocol and Seberang Perai Municipal Council (MPSP) will be organising the IWD 2019 celebration on March 8 at Dewan SP Arena in Seberang Jaya.
Over 20 events such as leadership workshops, conferences, science workshops, networking sessions, carnivals, talks, exhibitions and fun run, will be held.
“We are expecting 10,000 people taking part in the IWD celebration this year, we are also promoting IWD through the social media platform, especially on Facebook and Instagram.
“We hope to reach out to 150,000 social media users.
“The events are planned for both men and women, and we would like to call on the media practitioners to give a wider coverage on these awareness programmes.
“I think it is essential to appreciate the women in your life,” state Women and Family Development, Gender Inclusiveness and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Chong Eng said during a press conference held at Komtar today.
For further details, visit the official website of PWDC ( http://pwdc.org.my) and check their Facebook page (https://m.facebook.com/PWDCMalaysia/).
The theme for for this year’s IWD 2019 is ‘Balance For Better’, and it calls for a global push for professional and social equality.
“The aim is to encourage gender balance in boardrooms, in decision making, in workplace, in the media, and in terms of wealth for economies to thrive.
“This year 2019 is a significant year for Penang. The state is celebrating IWD 2019 in a more jubilant manner as we have achieved four huge milestones.
“Firstly, the adoption of Gender Inclusiveness Policy by state government.
“Secondly, the establishment of Women and Family Development Committee or ‘Jawatankuasa Pembangunan Wanita dan Keluarga’ (JPWK) at each constituency.
“The Chief Minister on Feb 21 announced that the DAP will have at least 30% women representation in the next appointment of local councillors in Penang.
“And the fourth milestone is that the UN-Habitat, United Cities and Local Governments, and PWDC will be working together on gender mainstreaming initiatives for the Asia Pacific region,” Chong Eng said.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi