Batang Sadong MP: Women play pivotal role in strengthening grassroots development

KUCHING (Dec 29): Women play a pivotal role in community development, particularly in enhancing socio-economic growth and strengthening family institutions at the grassroots level, said Batang Sadong MP Rodiyah Sapiee.

She said active involvement of women in community organisations is essential to achieving sustainable and inclusive development at the local level, according to a Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas) report.

For instance, she noted that the Sarawak Federation of Women’s Institutes (PPWS) serves as an effective platform to unite women from diverse backgrounds while empowering them to become independent and competitive contributors to society.

“I see PPWS as a strong platform to produce capable women who can make meaningful contributions to community development,” she said during the PPWS Simunjan District Family Day held at the PPWS Simunjan Building on Sunday.

Rodiyah called upon the PPWS branches in Simunjan to develop specialised products under the ‘One PPWS, One Product’ initiative as a sustainable income-generating effort.

In line with this, she commended the success of the PPWS Simunjan Bakery, which is proof that proper planning yields positive outcomes.

She also urged members to explore local product potential, leverage digital platforms and social media for marketing and stay informed on available government assistance.

She said the assistance includes the RM5,000 Women Empowerment Capital Grant under the Sarawak Women and Family Department (JWKS) as well as Tekun business financing.

Rodiyah further emphasised the importance of financial discipline and well-prepared proposals to ensure that any assistance received delivers long-term impact to the community.

“When women move forward with strong determination and clear purpose, PPWS can become a powerful catalyst for community development,” she said.