CABINET EXPRESSES APPRECIATION FOR MALAYSIAN WOMEN

KUALA LUMPUR, March 8 (Bernama) -- The Cabinet today expressed appreciation for the role, sacrifices, and strength of women in shaping the future of families, communities, and the nation on Women’s Day.

Minister of Women, Family and Community Development Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said the 2026 International Women’s Day will be held on March 10 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC).

She said the event, to be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, underscores the government’s commitment to empowering women and ensuring their voices are valued.

bootstrap slideshow

She said this year’s theme, Memartabat Wanita, Memperkukuh Negara (Empowering Women, Strengthening the Nation), highlights that valuing women strengthens the entire country.

“To all women: mothers, daughters, sisters, leaders, entrepreneurs, and educators, thank you for your dedication, sacrifices, and resilience that inspire us all. Happy International Women’s Day,” she wrote on Facebook.

Adding to the Cabinet’s tributes, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil posted on Facebook that a woman’s love is a precious gift, paying tribute to his mother and wife.

“Thank you for the strength, love, and inspiration you bring to the world,” he said.

Similarly, Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan said empowering women in both the formal and gig economy remains a ministry priority, adding that they not only contribute to the workforce but also lead organisations, drive innovation, and boost economic growth.

“Through skills development, social protection, fair job opportunities, and safe, inclusive workplaces, I am committed to helping more women join and thrive in the workforce.

“I believe that when women have equal opportunities to succeed, it benefits families, communities, and strengthens the nation,” he added.

Meanwhile, Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup said women’s active involvement across sectors, from policymakers to scientific researchers, is key to achieving the nation’s sustainability agenda.

“We must continue to give women the support and opportunities to shine and lead. Empowering women helps build a stronger, fairer, and more prosperous nation for future generations,” he said.

International Women’s Day greetings were also extended by Minister of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali as well as Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, continuing the show of support across the Cabinet.

In addition, Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said that in the tourism and cultural sectors, many women play an important role in preserving local culture and community heritage with passion and professionalism.

“Their efforts not only support community and economic development, but also help showcase the beauty and warmth of Malaysia’s diverse culture to the world,” he said.

Meanwhile, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, in a special letter to women, emphasised that education lifts them from ignorance to enlightenment. She stressed that the ongoing struggle for the right to education represents a collective effort to uphold human dignity.

“No matter who we are or our background, we are women who will move forward with courage and uplift ourselves for the nation,” she said.

Echoing this sentiment, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said noted that women are not only the backbone of families but also drivers of society, the economy and national development.

“When women are empowered, the nation becomes stronger, fairer and more prosperous. May this celebration remind us that empowering women helps build a stronger future for the country,” she said.

Similarly, Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu observed that many women work tirelessly behind the scenes, growing crops, running food businesses, supporting families and helping put food on people’s tables.

National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang also highlighted that women play a key role in fostering compassion, respect, and togetherness in Malaysia’s diverse society.

“Let us continue to value and empower women, giving them space to lead, contribute and inspire. Empowered women strengthen the nation,” he added.

Likewise, Minister of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali urged the public to value women’s sacrifices, dedication, and love that shape lives.

Adding to these voices, Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo said women are vital catalysts across all sectors and industries.

“Today, we celebrate women’s strength, resilience, leadership, and invaluable contributions to communities and society. May they continue to rise, lead, and thrive,” he said.

Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir further acknowledged women’s sacrifices, saying they complete men’s lives and selflessly care for their children.

“Women are a source of inspiration, the backbone of families, drivers of society, and shapers of the nation’s future. May their hard work and contributions always be appreciated,” he said.

-- BERNAMA