CM: Seed capital to help women venture into businesses
KUCHING: The Sarawak government is committed to helping and empowering the needy, including single mothers.
In making this call, Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg pointed out that any grant or assistance provided by the government is meant to assist them further in any endeavour.
“In recognition of the creditworthiness of women, I have announced RM1 million as ‘seed capital’ through the Welfare, Community Wellbeing, Women, Family and Childhood Development Ministry to assist more women in their small ventures,” he said at Carnation Club of Kuching and Samarahan Division’s 10th anniversary dinner in Thian Court at Crown Square here on Friday night.
His text of speech was read by Minister of Welfare, Community Well Being, Women, Family and Childhood Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah.
Initially, said Abang Johari, the seed capital started at RM500,000 last year but as things progressed, it had created some success stories.
“I believe that this is the way to help women,” he said.
Meanwhile in her remarks, Fatimah said all women, regardless of race, are eligible for the assistance provided by the Sarawak government.
“When I look at the data, not many Chinese single mothers have come forward to apply for the grant.
“I want to emphasise that this assistance is available for all women, regardless of race. But you have to come forward and apply,” she stressed.
Fatimah added that each application received and approved would receive business equipment worth RM5,000, meant as the start-up for women venturing into business.
Separately, Fatimah commended the Carnation Club for its persistence and commitment in helping single mothers.
“The Carnation Club has played a tremendous role in assisting my ministry carry out our programmes.
“Therefore, I urge the club’s chairperson Magdalene Chong to go to rural areas and help more single mothers (there) to ensure that they are not being left out,” the minister said.