KUCHING: Women in Sarawak continue to create big changes in various fields, becoming an important pulse in the social, economic and leadership development of the state.

This was emphasised by the Minister of Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development, Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah in a special speech in conjunction with the celebration of International Women's Day (IWD) 2025: Accelerating Action, at a leading hotel, here on Monday.

According to her, the role of women is not only focused on domestic responsibilities, but also as educators, health care providers, community leaders and drivers of innovation and the economy.

"Women in Sarawak today not only contribute significantly in the formal sector, but are also key drivers in the informal sector. Their role in building the community and the economy cannot be underestimated," she said.

Meanwhile, Dato Sri Fatimah also revealed that women now comprise more than 47 per cent of the registered workforce in Sarawak.

This figure, she said, is expected to be higher when women's involvement in the informal sector is also taken into account.

"Women's participation in education is showing a positive trend. More and more female students are completing secondary education and pursuing higher education," she added.

In the same development, Dato Sri Fatimah also introduced a new initiative that will be launched this year, namely a special award for organisations that practice women-friendly policies, including flexible work policies, workplace safety and fair promotion opportunities.

This award, she said, will be announced at the Sarawak Women's Day celebration later, aimed at recognising employers who show a high commitment to the welfare and career development of women.

Concluding her speech, Dato Sri Fatimah called on all parties including the private sector, academic institutions and the public to continue to work together to champion the women's empowerment agenda. - UKASnews