LIMBANG: Sarawak Federation of Women’s Institutes (SFWI) here is extending its skill training programme to the rural and remote areas of the state to encourage women’s involvement in various sectors here.
Its chairlady Dayang Suridah Mohammad Superi said the programme aims to serve as a platform for women, particularly those residing in the rural and remote areas, to be able to take part in the economy, unveil their potential and contribute to society.
“The annual programme, in conjunction with International Women’s Day, has so far received encouraging responses from women here. Thus, we hope for similar or even better feedback this year,” she said during a meeting with seven other branches here at SFWI office located near Sungai Limbang yesterday.
Among those present were SFWI Limbang district secretary Jaliha Matusin as well as representatives from Limpaki Pinang, Lupak Rangas, Lubuk Piasau, Ulak, Buang Abai, Gadong and Lubuk Pangi.
Dayang Suridah added that the federation has so far 1,000 members in all of its 47 branches in Limbang alone.
“The number has increased tremendously since 2012, with more awareness amongst women to improve their household income and indirectly, the local economy,” she elaborated.
It was recorded that seven SFWI were formed at longhouses – two in a Bisaya village, two in a Chinese village (namely) SFWI Sakura and SFWI Bandar Limbang while the rest were set up in Malay and Kedayan villages.
The meeting also discussed about activities to be organised in conjunction with the SFWI district-level celebration which is said to be held at Kampung Gadong on May 3.
“Kampung Gadong is unique because of its local community and the products produced through its Small and Medium enterprises (SMEs) would surely become part of its attraction,”
she said adding that its members are urged to be involved actively and creatively in the programme, to make it a success.