WOMEN were hailed for their strength, resilience, and achievements at the Malaysian Ceylonese Congress (MCC) International Women’s Day Hi-Tea 2026, held at G. Hotel today.
In her address, Madam Tan Lean Kee, wife of Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, acknowledged the significant contributions women make in leadership, business, the arts, and in their roles as mothers, daughters, caregivers, and community builders.
“It is the quiet strength of these everyday heroes that shapes the foundation of families and society. We are blessed to witness the contributions of women from all walks of life here in Penang — women who lead with courage, uplift others, and continue to break barriers while remaining deeply rooted in compassion and values,” she said.
Tan further highlighted that this year’s celebration serves as a reminder that the empowerment of women is not just about individual success but also about creating opportunities for future generations.
“When women support one another, we build stronger communities, and a more inclusive and hopeful future,” she emphasised.
She also commended the organisers for holding the meaningful event, bringing together individuals who believe in the power of unity, growth and positive impact. Tan urged all the attendees to continue empowering one another and making a difference in their communities.
Addressing the women in the audience, she said: “To every woman here today, your journey matters, your voice matters, and your dreams matter. Continue to rise, to inspire, and to lead with purpose.”
Among those present at the event were organising chairman Datin Mala Parameshwaran, wife of the Malaysian Ceylonese Penang Branch chairman Datuk Dr K. Parameshwaran; Puan Seri Suziwati Baidawi, wife of State Muhibbah Council chairman Tan Sri Dr Yusoff Latiff, former Batu Kawan MP and International Secretary of DAP Kasthuri Patto, Datuk Marina Putih, head of the Ladies Wing of Muhibbah Consultative Council Pulau Pinang, and former MCC Penang vice-chairman S. Lathashini.
Looking back on the journey of the celebration, Mala shared that the first International Women’s Day event in 2015 had only 12 women in attendance, but she expressed pride in the fact that today’s gathering saw 125 participants. She added that the event’s growth reflected not just a numbers game but the strength, unity, and spirit of women coming together to support one another.
“When I look around this room, I see stories of courage, sacrifice, and victory. Women are the backbone of families, the heart of communities, and the driving force behind progress. Whether as mothers, daughters, professionals, entrepreneurs, or leaders, we carry many roles yet rise with grace. But let us be honest: our journey has not always been easy,” Mala said.
Dr Parameshwaran explained that MCC Penang continues to hold this event firmly due to their Ceylonese heritage, which recognises the wife and mother as the pillar of the family. He stressed the important role mothers play in managing homes, nurturing children, guiding their education and careers, and even influencing family decisions.
“Mothers give endlessly without hesitation as they raise generations of loving, educated, responsible individuals who contribute to society. When mothers give, the nation gains,” he said, aligning his words with the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day celebration, “Give To Gain.”
He also referenced the power of reciprocity in giving, noting that when a person helps someone, they experience a ‘special happiness’ as the brain releases ‘happy chemicals.’
He concluded by wishing all attendees a wonderful International Women’s Day.
Pix by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi