KUCHING: Teenage pregnancies and early marriages among young girls are among societal issues that highlight the need for sustained advocacy and community engagement.
In this instance, the Sarawak Women for Women Society (SWWS) has been playing its role with unwavering commitment.
In stating this, the Women, Early Childhood and Community Well-being Development Minister, Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, said these issues persist despite the progress made in education, healthcare and women’s rights.
“SWWS’ mission is far from over. In fact, it’s more urgent than ever,” she said at the SWWS 40th Anniversary here today.
In acknowledging its decades-long commitment to social justice, she said the SWWS has become a pillar of support and advocacy for women and children across Sarawak.
“Your dedication to gender equality, economic empowerment, and protection from violence is truly commendable,” Fatimah added.
“Your role is not over yet, Sarawak still needs your support, especially in cases of teenage pregnancies among young girls and even early teenage marriages which seems to be rampant these days.”
Founded in 1985, the society has long served as a voice for the vulnerable and a platform for change, and today, its work in promoting legal literacy, reproductive health education, and protection against gender-based violence, places it at the forefront of tackling problems that disproportionately affect young women and girls in Sarawak’s urban and rural communities.
Fatimah noted that the organisation’s mission is closely aligned with her ministry’s focus areas, including enhancing leadership education for women, implementing zero-tolerance policies against violence and harassment, and creating inclusive pathways for economic independence.
“Your services, from the women’s crisis helpline WINNIE (SWWS’ Information Hub in addition to our drop-in centre) to school outreach and public education are more than just programmes.
“They are lifelines. This is what partnership looks like, government, civil society, and the private sector working hand in hand for real impact,” she said.
In 2023, to increase access to all SWWS’ services, including those for domestic violence’s survivors, WINNE’s Place was opened in the city at the Community Social Support Centre (CSSC), a collaborative hub for NGOs and government services.
Looking ahead, Fatimah said, as Sarawak moves forward with its Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), which prioritises inclusivity and social well-being, organisations like SWWS will continue to play a crucial role in ensuring that no woman or child is left behind.
“There is still much to be done, but if these 40 years have shown us anything, it’s that change happens when women lead, when they organise, and when they care,” she said.
In recognition of its legacy, Fatimah pledged a RM10,000 Minor Rural Project (MRP) grant to support the society’s upcoming project, a commemorative publication documenting SWWS’ 40-year journey and its contributions to human rights in Sarawak.
“We are not just celebrating an anniversary tonight; we are celebrating decades of courage, compassion and community impact.
“Few organisations survive this long, let alone thrive and continue to be recognised by both the state and national human rights bodies such as SUHAKAM,” Fatimah added.
In the same event, SWWS’ President, Dr Angie Garet, said the milestone was not just a celebration, but an opportunity to reflect, honour past contributions, and set new goals for the future.
“Tonight is not just about remembering our journey, but recognising the bravery and dedication of so many individuals who stood with us over the last four decades.
“Forty years is no small achievement. Since 1985, SWWS has been working to empower women, support families, and build safer and stronger communities in Sarawak.
“The society’s many initiatives, from legal literacy seminars and HIV awareness campaigns to domestic violence prevention and youth outreach, had grown through volunteerism, community collaboration, and sheer perseverance,” said Garet.
SWWS’ efforts have not gone unnoticed. In 2012, it received the Persatuan Cemerlang Award during the Sarawak’s Women’s Day celebration.
In 2014, SUHAKAM honoured SWWS with the Human Rights Award for Organisations, acknowledging its pioneering role in promoting gender rights and human dignity.
