Over 4,000 apply for Ikon Wanita programme

KUCHING: The ‘Ikon Wanita’ Programme implemented through the Ministry of Women, Family, and Community Development has received over 4,000 applications.

However, its Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said only a portion of these applicants have completed the application process as they are being trained on how to submit their entries correctly.

“We have asked some participants to reapply, and currently, we have more than 50 qualified applicants.

“As this is the first time the programme is being conducted, and the ministry is eager to see its outcomes.

“We are working towards reaching 100 successful applicants, and this remains our goal,” she said.

She said this after officiating at the Malaysia Autism Swimming Festival (MASF) organised by Hawary Sports Centre in collaboration with the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development here today (July 6).

Nancy said the ministry is guiding the applicants to ensure they meet the necessary criteria.

She said the selected candidates will later engage with a panel that will assess their interest and potential impact on society.

“The panel will evaluate how they can influence the public and contribute to the nation,” she added.

She also said the programme is set to be completed by this month, or latest by third quarter of the year.

This initiative, announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on International Women’s Day (March 8), will see the provision of RM50,000 in funds to assist 100 women leaders.

The funding will serve as a catalyst to amplify women’s ideas and contributions in a bid to enhance female labour force participation through the Madani economic policy.