KUCHING: The Women Artisan Leadership Programme (WALP) 2026 serves as a platform to guide women to become entrepreneurs, leaders, and agents of change within their respective communities.
Minister of Women, Family and Community Development, Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said the initiative was designed to go beyond conventional skills training by equipping women artisans with leadership capabilities and long-term resilience.
“The Women Artisan Leadership Programme 2026 is an important initiative aimed at empowering women artisans in our country.
“I would like to congratulate the organisers for implementing a programme that goes beyond skills training, and instead focuses on building leadership, self-confidence, and a stronger future for women,” she said.
She said this in her speech during the officiating ceremony of WALP 2026 at Dayak Chamber of Commerce and Industry building here on Saturday.
“We know that women artisans play a significant role in preserving cultural heritage, producing local products, and contributing to the income of families and communities.
“However, in today’s world, talent alone is not enough. Women need business knowledge, market access, networks, and digital skills in order to compete with confidence,” she added.
Highlighting the broader impact of women’s empowerment, Nancy said strengthening women would have a ripple effect on society.
“When women are empowered, families become stronger, local economies grow, and society becomes more prosperous. Women’s empowerment is an investment in the future of the nation,” she said.
Focusing on Sarawak, Nancy described local women as resilient and highly creative, particularly those from rural and interior areas.
“In Sarawak in particular, I see women who are strong, independent and creative. Many come from rural and interior areas, yet their spirit and determination are truly extraordinary,” she said.
She urged women in the state to fully utilise the opportunities and support provided through government initiatives.
“Therefore, I would like to call upon the women of Sarawak: seize the opportunities given. Do not wait. Do not hesitate. Make full use of every training, network and support provided to transform your own lives and the lives of your families.
“The government and various agencies will continue to open doors and provide support, but true success ultimately depends on the courage of women themselves to step forward,” she said, adding that women in Sarawak are also fortunate to have a government with abundant resources to support all its communities.
