THE YOUNG WOMEN ENTREPRENEURSHIP EMPOWERMENT PROGRAMME CONTINUES IN LIBARAN

8 JUNE 2025 

KOTA KINABALU (SUNDAY): The Institute for Development Studies (Sabah) (IDS) and Sabah Credit Corporation (SCC), in collaboration with the Sandakan Municipal Council, will be organising the Empowering Young Women Entrepreneurs of Sabah: Women’s Power, Economic Power programme on Wednesday, 11 June 2025, at the Libaran Multipurpose Hall, Sandakan.

This programme is part of an ongoing outreach series, now entering its fourth location following earlier editions held in Beaufort, Ranau and Tenom. The series aims to reach young women entrepreneurs across various districts, ensuring that support, financing, and training are delivered directly to the target groups at the grassroots level.

According to IDS Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Ts. Dr. Ramzah Dambul, the implementation of the programme is tailored to the specific needs and potential of each location to ensure greater impact for its intended audience. “Each district has its own development context and challenges. Therefore, this programme has been designed so that its approach can be more effectively aligned with local conditions,” he said.

He further emphasised that the initiative is guided by the belief that women can serve as key drivers in narrowing the economic gap between urban and rural areas. Women are among the most effective actors in grassroots economic development. They also have the potential, skills, and capabilities to contribute meaningfully to the economic development of Sabah.

The half-day programme will feature experience-sharing sessions with industry players and successful local women entrepreneurs, including Mdm. Masna Osman (Founder of Nana Puteri Beauty & Wellness) and Mdm. Rahimah Asrah (Chairperson of the Batu Sapi Women’s Cooperative). In addition to business mentoring and briefings on the DAYANG Credit Scheme by SCC, participants will also receive exposure to digital literacy strategies, which are increasingly critical in managing and marketing modern businesses. Approximately 600 participants are expected to attend, comprising young women from Libaran and surrounding areas.

For more information about the programme, please contact the Programme Coordinator, Ms. Fiona V. Loijon, at fiona.loijon@ids.org.my or call 088-450 500.