GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Women’s Development Corp (PWDC) is aiming to break Malaysia’s Book of Records by having the most participants in a Zumba dance as part of this year’s International Women’s Day celebration.
The colourful event will be held in Midtown Perda in Tasek Gelugor at 8am on Saturday.
PWDC chief executive officer Ong Bee Leng said so far, over 9,000 people have registered for the event, surpassing the previous record of 8,445 participants.
“This year marks the 11th year of the celebration in Penang, and we are embracing equity through gender inclusiveness.
“The celebration gives recognition to all women for their achievements and contributions towards families, the community, state and national development.
“Themed ‘Embrace Equity’, there would be an array of events such as the Zumba dance as well as games and exhibitions,” she said.
Meanwhile, Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said Penang remained on track to achieving 30% female representation in the state’s administration within the next 10 years.
“United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres had said that the journey towards achieving gender equality would take 300 years more before the objective is achieved.
“Although some companies have appointed large numbers of women to their leadership to promote equality, it has not been reflected in the actual situation.
“We have been trying through amendments of laws and policies and setting up agencies to initiate activities to increase awareness,” Chow said yesterday.
He said the Penang state government has been advocating for the 30% representation of women in all sectors, including politics, but the number of candidates was not easy to come by.
“When we invite nominations for candidate selection, often we don’t get the numbers.
“We will place as many opportunities as possible for those recommended.
“Right now, we are at about 20%, and hopefully, it will reach 30% within the next decade,” he said.
Earlier, Chow, who is Padang Kota assemblyman, toured the Chowrasta Market to distribute soap flowers to women in conjunction with International Women’s Day.
Although the celebration mainly focused on women, men, too, were not forgotten for their dedication, sacrifice and support towards forming an equal community.
Market traders, hawkers, and market-goers also went on to have their photos taken with Chow.
Also present were Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Daniel Gooi and Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng.
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