HUI YING SPREADS INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY CHEER AT CHOWRASTA AND CECIL STREET MARKETS

GEORGE TOWN, March 8 (Bernama) -- The atmosphere at the Chowrasta and Cecil Street markets here today was noticeably more vibrant, as Deputy Minister of Women, Family and Community Development Lim Hui Ying visited the premises in conjunction with International Women's Day 2026.

In a warm and welcoming setting, Lim engaged with female traders and shoppers, distributing 2,500 roses as a symbol of appreciation and affection for their vital role as the backbone of family well-being and local economy.

"International Women's Day is more than just an annual celebration; it is an important platform to recognise the roles and contributions of women across various sectors of life.  

"Whether as mothers who are the pillars of the family, workers contributing to the national economy, entrepreneurs creating job opportunities, or leaders within the community, women are key drivers of societal progress," she told reporters. 

The theme for this year, "Empowering Women, Strengthening the Nation," reinforces the message that national progress is inextricably linked to women’s full participation and standing in every field of development, Lim added.

Meanwhile, Lim emphasised that the MADANI Government is committed to continuously empowering women through the implementation of the National Women's Policy 2025–2030, which focuses on economic empowerment, leadership advancement, and the protection of their safety and well-being.

"The government has introduced various initiatives, such as the Wanita MyWira programme, which provides skills training in digital technology, artificial intelligence, and the future economy to assist women who wish to re-enter the job market.

"Furthermore, the government is paying attention to the development of the care economy and encouraging women's participation in new economic sectors, including the creative economy and the Orange Economy, which encompasses the fields of arts, culture, crafts, fashion and digital content," she said.

--BERNAMA