KUCHING: Women’s participation in entrepreneurship is a key driver of economic progress, innovation and social transformation.
In stating this, Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri pointed out that women-owned businesses globally contribute significantly to gross domestic product growth, job creation and community development.
“Here in Malaysia, we see women excelling in various sectors, including technology, hospitality, agriculture and the circular economy.
“Despite these advancements, women continue to face challenges such as access to capital, market entry barriers, and gender biases in the business world.
“As such, conferences like this serve as an essential platform to bridge knowledge gaps, facilitate mentorship and create opportunities for women entrepreneurs to thrive,” she said.

She said this in her speech read by Women’s Development Department Director General Hanani Sapit during the Women Entrepreneurship Conference (WEC) 2025 at Dayak Chamber Tower here Saturday.
Highlighting the unique challenges faced by Dayak women in Sarawak, Nancy said that many Dayak women struggle with limited access to education, healthcare, and financial resources, as well as societal stereotypes that limit their business opportunities.
Citing the studies by Tateh, Latip, and Marikan (2014), she said that the lack of exposure and training in entrepreneurship among Dayak women compared to other ethnic groups caused such challenges.
“This reality underscores the urgency of creating a more inclusive and supportive ecosystem where all women, regardless of background, can access opportunities and succeed in business.
“In this regard, Women Empowerment and Sustainability Network Association (WESNA) Kuching has taken a commendable step in advocating for women entrepreneurs, ensuring they have access to training, financial literacy programmes, and networking opportunities.
“Such initiatives are vital in fostering sustainable economic participation among indigenous women in Sarawak,” she said.
Nancy commended the organisation of WEC 2025 as a powerful initiative that aligns with national and global efforts to uplift women in business.
During the conference held from Feb 21 to 22, she said participants would engage in insightful sessions on entrepreneurship in the food industry and hospitality sector; caregiving and wellness entrepreneurship; financial management and taxation for businesses; digital branding and marketing strategies; and success stories and networking opportunities.
These discussions, she noted, are crucial in equipping women with the knowledge and skills to navigate the evolving business landscape, particularly in the digital and gig economies.
“Women entrepreneurs must not only be business leaders but also champions of change within their communities.
“By fostering leadership qualities among women, we ensure that they can advocate for themselves, contribute to economic sustainability and create opportunities for future generations,” she said.
Having said that, she called on all the women entrepreneurs present to seize the opportunities provided through this conference.
“Network with industry experts, exchange ideas, and leverage the knowledge shared to advance your businesses. Let us continue breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes and uplifting one another.
“Remember, when women succeed, families, communities and nations thrive. Empowered women are not just business leaders; they are catalysts of social and economic transformation,” she said.