SEPANG: A total of 46,426 women entrepreneurs have participated in the Wanita Bangkit@KPWKM programme since it was launched on Sept 1, last year, said Datuk Seri Rina Mohd Harun.

The Women, Family and Community Development Minister said this was a promising development especially after the country entered the transition to endemic phase.

"The Wanita Bangkit@KPWKM initiative was 'born' from the COVID-19 pandemic situation, which has affected the lives of people in various aspects, especially finances.

"This initiative is in line with the government's aspiration of 'no one is left behind' as well as to support and protect the lives of those affected, particularly women," she told reporters after launching the Wanita Bangkit@KPWKM Career and Entrepreneurship Carnival here today.

She also encourages women to always be ready to face various challenges and be independent to find a source of income.


Meanwhile, Rina said more than 15,000 job opportunities in various sectors were offered by some 30 employers during the one-day carnival.

"KPWKM wants to open up as many career opportunities as possible to all levels of society, especially women. There will also be a sharing session of tips and advice from successful entrepreneurs," she said, adding that the ministry is targeting 59 per cent female participation in the workforce by 2025.

In another development, Rina, who is also Perikatan Nasional (PN) Women chief, said its machinery is always prepared to face the 15th General Election at any time.

"Our machinery will work as one team under PN. This means, we will not only be known as Srikandi Bersatu (Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia), Dewan Muslimat PAS or Gerakan Women's wing, but as Wanita PN," she said.

She also said that PN Women's wing has been carrying out activities to reach out to the people, understand their problems and provide assistance regardless of political beliefs.

-- BERNAMA