KAPIT: The Dynamic Women Programme has reached almost 8,000 participants in Sarawak since 2021.
The initiative was highlighted on Saturday during the Kasih Wanita Advocacy Programme @ Kapit: Dynamic Women & Zero Tolerance for Violence, organised by the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development (KPWKM) at the Malay Community Hall in Kampung Muhibah.
Its minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri, said the programme plays a crucial role in equipping women with protection, skills training, entrepreneurial guidance and psychosocial assistance—key elements needed to build sustainable livelihoods.
She added that 21,274 women nationwide have benefitted from the Dynamic Women Programme to date.
“For Sarawak alone, RM3.9 million has been allocated to ensure more women are able to stand on their own and support their families,” she said in her speech.
Nancy added that many participants have since started food-related ventures, online businesses and even created job opportunities within their local communities.
At the same time, she stressed the importance of the Zero Tolerance for Violence initiative, which aims to raise awareness about sexual harassment and violence against women, in line with the full enforcement of the Sexual Harassment Act 2022, which came into effect in March 2024.
She also highlighted statistics from the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), which show a rising trend in domestic violence cases, from 477 cases in 2022 to 522 cases in 2023, 788 cases in 2024 and 872 cases recorded up to October 2025.
However, she emphasised that the increase in reports also indicates that more victims are now courageous enough to come forward and seek help, thanks to continuous advocacy and public education efforts.
Meanwhile, ahead of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (EVAW) on 25 November, Nancy encouraged all Malaysians to wear orange as a gesture of solidarity with victims and as a symbol of hope for a future free from violence.
She underscored that women are a vital pillar in the development of families, communities and the nation, and therefore their safety, wellbeing and dignity must always be prioritised.
Nancy also called on men to become allies in efforts to end violence against women, emphasising that a society that respects women is one that is truly civilised.
