KUALA LUMPUR: Three Asean women leaders took the stage alongside Malaysia’s Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz to discuss failure, resilience, and the way forward for women in leadership.
The panel, part of the “Global Power Hour: Women Pioneering Change Across Continents”, featured Cambodian Minister of Commerce Cham Nimul, Indonesia’s Vice Minister of Trade Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri and UOB Malaysia CEO Ng Wei Wei.
Moderated by Tengku Zafrul, the conversation centred on policy, progress, personal stories and insights of the four leaders.
“Don’t blame yourself,” said Cham, urging women to stop internalising guilt in the face of setbacks.
“There are already many others who want to blame us for many things, but when that blame comes from within, it hits the hardest. Don’t do that to yourself,” she said during the talk on Sunday (May 25).
Esti addressed the generational challenge of instant gratification, especially among young people in the digital age.
“Many young people today project their identity through platforms that reward them instantly, but life doesn’t work that way.
“Failure is not the end, it’s just part of the journey,” she said.
She said that in many Asian cultures, failure is frequently viewed as a defining moment, whereas it should be reframed as a crucial step towards growth and contribution.
Echoing that theme, Ng said one should stay the course despite setbacks.
“If you want to make a difference, passion and energy alone aren’t enough. You need grit, agility and the ability to bounce back even when it’s uncomfortable.
“Courage and resolve are essential. The leaders before us paved the way, and now it’s our turn to do the same for the next generation,” she said.
When asked, Tengku Zafrul offered advice for those balancing multiple roles.
“Before I entered politics, I saw firsthand how difficult it is for women in corporate leadership. Your journeys are inspiring,” he said.
He then shared the key lessons of partnerships, determination and remaining true to one’s beliefs.
“Believe in what you’re doing. Don’t change your path just to please others. Be true to yourself,” Zafrul said.
