Datuk Seri Shahrizat Abdul Jalil
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Women and Family Development Council today announced the establishment of a national Sohonista Secretariat, specifically to assist those women undertaking online businesses.
Its chairman, Datuk Seri Shahrizat Abdul Jalil said the term Sohonista, refers to ‘small office, home office’ and from women for women.
It is she added, a Barisan Nasional Women’s initiative to strengthen the economy of women, on the principle that every woman needs to have her own ‘wallet’.
She said, the idea of establishing the secretariat arose as a lot of women, particularly those recently married or with small families, are forced to abandon their careers due to the problem of not having a maid.
“I see them as having ideas, resources and expertise to start an online business from home, but face hurdles in getting the necessary assistance.
“Sohonista does not just focus on women, as we are also keen on the participation of men, who might want to join this programme,” she told reporters after officiating the first Sohonista bazaar here yesterday.
Also present was Pahang Umno Women’s chief, Datuk Rosni Zahari, who is also the Sohonista chairman.
Elaborating further, Shahrizat said the secretariat will also assist those involved in the online business to secure assistance such as advice, as well as facilities and finance.
“For example, the Prime Minister (Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak) just launched the RM50 million Young Entrepreneurs Fund, for youths keen on starting or expanding their existing businesses.
“But many may not still know how or where they have to go to apply for the fund. So, we will act as a go-between for them,” she added.
Shahrizat also launched yesterday the Sohonista secretariat website, www.sohonista.my, and mobile application.
The launch saw the participation of more than 80 Sohonista entrepreneurs and the presence of 30 stalls selling various items such as headscarf, clothes alongside accessories. — Bernama