KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor said women  empowerment is high on the State Government’s agenda and this is reflected in the  RM5.83 million allocation under the State Budget to implement women’s development  programmes through the Sabah Women Affairs Department (JHEWA) this year. 

He said the State Government welcomed like-minded organisations such as the  Sabah Women Entrepreneurs and Professionals Association (SWEPA) to complement its efforts to empower women. 

“We strive to ensure that women get equal opportunities and benefits,” he said at  SWEPA 30th anniversary celebrations and charity dinner at Magellan Sutera here, last  night. 

His speech was delivered by Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina  Liew. 

Congratulating SWEPA for reaching a milestone anniversary, the Chief Minister was  glad to learn that at the core of SWEPA's mission was its dedication to empowering  women through skills and knowledge development. 

“You have consistently proven your commitment to nurturing and enhancing women’s  talents through various training programs, workshops, and mentoring initiatives. In the  process, many women have been equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence  to break barriers and to excel in diverse fields,” he said. 

Hajiji urged SWEPA to continue its commendable journey, spread its wings wide to  touch more lives and strive for even greater heights. 

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