THE Penang Women Chamber of Commerce (PWCC) celebrated its eighth anniversary in grand style this evening, marking another milestone in its mission to empower and elevate women in business.
The celebration, held at the Fifth Avenue Hotel in Macallum Street, was graced by Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and his wife, Madam Tan Lean Kee.
In his address, Chow congratulated PWCC for its remarkable growth and impact since its founding in 2017.
He said since its inception, PWCC has evolved into one of Penang’s most respected platforms for women entrepreneurs.
“What began as a bold idea has transformed into a dynamic movement that empowers women to lead, innovate, and redefine success.
“Through mentorship, advocacy, and collaboration, PWCC has built a community of women who uplift one another and contribute meaningfully to Penang’s economic and social progress,” he said.
Chow also reiterated the state government’s continuous commitment to advancing women’s empowerment in Penang.
“Our efforts continue through the Penang Women’s Development Corporation (PWDC), with flagship programmes such as PenMentor and Wanita Jana Rezeki.
“Over the past six years, PenMentor has trained and mentored 433 women entrepreneurs, helping participants achieve an average income increase of 30%.
“Meanwhile, Wanita Jana Rezeki continues to empower grassroots women leaders under the Women and Family Development Committees (JPWK), equipping them with the skills to develop community-based income projects and strengthen local economic resilience,” Chow added.
He also highlighted the vital role of women in shaping Penang’s progress.
“These achievements remind us that women are not merely participants in progress, but architects of it.
“When women thrive, families prosper. When women lead, communities flourish. Their leadership is central to our Penang2030 vision, and the state government remains steadfast in ensuring equitable access to education, funding, and leadership opportunities.
“We deeply value partnerships with organisations like PWCC, whose vision and initiatives strengthen our shared mission of building a more inclusive, innovative, and forward-looking Penang,” he said.
Also present at the event were Penang Social Development, Welfare and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Lim Siew Khim, PWCC president Koh Shu Juan, PWCC founder and former state executive councillor Datuk Seri Chong Eng, PWCC charter president and advisor Datuk Dr Annie Chin and the anniversary organising chairperson Susan Chyntana.
In her remarks, Lim commended PWCC for its eight years of dedication to empowering women entrepreneurs and fostering inclusive economic participation.
She said eight years of empowering, uplifting, and championing women in business had placed PWCC among the most inspiring organisations paving the way for women to thrive in entrepreneurship and innovation.
“You are proof that women are not just participants in the economy, we are the drivers of it!
“Your dedication to promoting inclusive economic growth, gender equality, and professional development aligns closely with the Penang government’s goals, especially within the portfolios I lead,” she said.
Lim expressed that as PWCC stepped into its ninth year, it would continue to advocate for women’s active participation in the economy, mentor the next generation of leaders, and create space for others to rise and shine together,” she said.
Meanwhile, Koh, in her speech, reaffirmed the chamber’s commitment to creating meaningful platforms for women to learn, collaborate, and grow.
She said with continued support from members and partners, much more could be achieved, while encouraging members to embrace visibility and confidence in their professional journeys.
Koh added that visibility matters because visibility brings opportunity, and opportunity brings growth.
“That’s why we must be seen, be heard, and lead by example.
“This year, we encouraged our members to step into the spotlight and share their stories because women can lead, women can shine, and it’s perfectly normal to be confident, expressive, and proud.
“I’m truly proud to see so many of our members featured in the press. You have proven that when women support women, magic happens,” Koh added.
During the event, Koh also announced the relaunch of the PWCC website, now offering a smarter, more convenient experience for members.
She explained that the upgraded website allowed members to register for events, make payments, receive receipts instantly, and update their business profiles and photos online.
“It’s a small improvement, but a big leap for digital empowerment because women entrepreneurs always evolve, adapt, and grow,” she said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat