Inspiring more women to strive for excellence

WOMEN should build their own career and play a part in contributing to the country’s economy, said state Women, Family and Community Development Committee chairman Chong Eng.

She said the country's gross domestic product (GDP) would grow if more women enter the working world.

Citing a study by McKinsey & Company published by UN Women, Chong Eng said if men and women play their role in the job labour market, the world’s GDP would see an increase of some RM125tril in the coming years until 2025.

"Women and men provide different forms of supplies in terms of talent, skills and abilities.

"Empowering women in the workplace will not only improve the economic growth, but also increase the standards of living for the family.

"Women must realise that they are no less capable than others. The number of female undergraduates is an evidence," she said in her speech after opening an exhibition organised by Women’s Rights Awareness Association (WRAA) at the district land office community hall in Sungai Jawi, Nibong Tebal, on Sunday.

The WRAA, based in Bukit Mertajam, is founded by Chong Eng to empower women especially on basic rights.

The exhibition featured women-relatedactivities, talks and booths selling food supplements, beauty products and others.

WRAA president Yeoh Poh Hioh said the annual event was aimed at empowering women on their rights.

She said the association also provides assistance and counselling and can be reached at 04-5301958 or email [e-mail].