Standing for gender equality

Anis Suraya Roslin(right), bringing a smile to a motorcylist with flowers at Chowrasta Market in George Town. — Photos: CHAN BOON KAI and ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star

INTERNATIONAL Women’s Day is celebrated annually on March 8 to honour the social, economic, cultural and political contributions of women.

It was officially recognised by the United Nations in 1977, and has helped build support for women’s rights and participation in the political and economic arenas.

A flash mob at Hin Bus Depot.

In Penang, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and Deputy Finance Minister Lim Hui Ying, who is also Tanjong MP, together with several elected representatives, engaged with and distributed some 2,000 flowers to women around the Chowrasta Market in George Town.

Performers from the Raffles Evergreen Singing Group hitting all the right notes when singing ‘Rasa Sayang’.

The gesture brought smiles to market-goers and traders alike.

At the nearby Hin Bus Depot in Jalan Gurdwara, about 100 women gathered to share stories, reflect on empowerment and discuss gender equality in Malaysian society.

The Hakka Women’s Association paying tribute to the resilience and strength of women through a stage production.

The gathering of women saw dialogues, dance performances, storytelling and a play depicting the life of Hakka women who were a central figure within their household as mothers and spouses.

Several reading and storytelling sessions were also held to share, remember and reflect on women’s lives.

The atmosphere, which was filled with encouragement, laughter and a shared sense of purpose, saw attendees rallying for equal opportunities and recognition.