THE inaugural HERTrade Womenpreneurs Award Ceremony 2025 made a resounding debut at Setia SPICE Arena, bringing together over 120 women-led enterprises and visitors from all walks of life under the empowering themes “Where Women Build Future” and “Empowering Women, Inspiring Sustainability.”
Organised by the Penang Entrepreneurs and Women Association (PEWA) in collaboration with the Penang Women’s Development Corporation (PWDC), the event marked a significant milestone in Penang’s journey toward inclusive economic growth and gender equality.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who officiated the ceremony, commended the initiative for spotlighting women’s contributions to entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainability.
“These themes truly capture the essence of today’s celebration, honouring women who are not only building successful enterprises but also shaping a future that is inclusive, innovative, and sustainable,” Chow said in his speech during the ceremony at Setia SPICE Arena today.
According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia’s 2024 report on women’s empowerment, the number of women-owned establishments rose to 219,015 in 2022, representing 20.1% of all registered businesses nationwide.
Female labour force participation reached 56.2% in 2023, with 83.2% among female graduates.
“These numbers tell a powerful story that women are not just participants in the economy; they are helping to shape its direction and define its future,” Chow added.
In Penang, women continue to lead in entrepreneurship, technology, and creative industries.
Guided by the Penang2030 vision, the state government remains committed to building an inclusive economy where equal access to education, digital tools, and business opportunities is a reality for all.
Programmes such as the Penang Women Entrepreneurs’ Mentoring Programme (PWEMP) and PENMentor have played a pivotal role in nurturing women’s leadership.
Notably, PEWA’s collaboration with PWDC to develop the Mandarin group under PENMentor reflects the power of strategic partnerships in expanding outreach and impact.
“Our aspiration is clear: to see at least 40% of SMEs in Penang owned by women by 2030.
“Because when women succeed, communities flourish, families thrive, and our economy grows stronger,” Chow said.
HERTrade 2025 achieved an impressive 95% exhibitor capacity, featuring 121 women-led and women-linked enterprises from Penang and beyond.
Nineteen outstanding women entrepreneurs were honoured across nine categories, including an international recipient from China.
A highlight of the evening was the collaboration with the Asian Beauty and Hairdressing Competition (ABHC) Asian Final from Xiamen, China, featuring 105 competitors from seven countries.
HERTrade’s certification by Yayasan Dato Malaysia further solidifies its credibility as a trusted platform for women entrepreneurs to connect, collaborate, and inspire.
Beyond business, HERTrade demonstrated its commitment to social responsibility. Through its CSR initiative, RM20,000 was raised to support four local schools: Penang Chinese Girls School, SJKC Hu Yew Seah, SMK Berapit, and SMJK Chung Hwa Confucian.
The introduction of “Madam G,” a creative mascot designed by Dr Kenny Loh, added a playful yet purposeful touch.
Proceeds from its merchandise will benefit non-governmental organisations (NGOs), including Wanita Prihatin, the Penang Family Health Development Association, and the Penang Welfare Association for Mentally Retarded Children.
HERTrade also embraced sustainability in its event design, using eco-green booth structures by Kumilink, a move that aligns with Penang2030’s vision of environmental responsibility.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, who was also present, praised HERTrade as a vital initiative to uplift women in the community.
“This programme is crucial to further strengthening women’s development in the state and country, while reflecting Penang’s commitment to giving equal opportunity to all,” Wong said.
As Malaysia continues to make strides in gender equality, with the Gender Gap Index recording 70.5% parity in 2023 and women in managerial roles rising to 25.4%, Penang’s efforts stand as a model of inclusive progress.
“Moving forward, the state government will continue to strengthen support for women entrepreneurs, expanding access to financing, training, digital tools, and international markets.
“Because when women rise, Penang rises with them. And when women build the future, they build it for all of us,” Chow said.
The HERTrade Womenpreneurs Award Ceremony 2025 not only celebrated achievements but also laid the foundation for a future where women’s innovation and leadership continue to shape a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous Penang.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Muhammad Iqbal Hamdan
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat