KUCHING – Non-governmental organisations dedicated to community advancement have been advised to broaden their strategic networks with government ministries and civil society groups across Sarawak to maximise the impact of welfare and economic initiatives.
The recommendation was delivered by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg during an official meeting with representatives from the Wanita HIKMAH committee at the Satria Pertiwi Complex.
Led by its chairman, Toh Puan Hajah Hayati Haji Ahmat, the delegation held discussions focused on strengthening structural support for women across urban and rural communities throughout the region.
During the session, the Premier underscored the necessity of establishing multi-agency collaborations to deliver targeted assistance and socio-economic support.
By merging administrative resources with community-led networks, non-profit entities and state departments can better address existing socio-economic gaps and elevate standards of living.
The discussion highlighted key operational sectors, including public welfare, educational development, financial self-reliance, and leadership training programmes tailored specifically for women.
Wanita HIKMAH currently manages an expansive administrative footprint across the region, maintaining 12 operational branches strategically positioned to reach diverse demographic groups.
To ensure equitable outreach, the organisation structures its community programmes across three designated territorial divisions, covering the Southern, Central, and Northern zones of Sarawak.
This zonal operational structure is designed to overcome geographical barriers and deliver essential services directly to individuals residing in remote and interior areas.
Central to the organisation’s core mission is the strengthening of family structures through targeted social interventions and educational outreach.
In addition to basic welfare support, the group places strong emphasis on skill development, aimed at expanding economic opportunities and enhancing long-term financial stability for participants.
The discussions also addressed ongoing measures to assist vulnerable populations, ensuring that humanitarian and financial support mechanisms remain accessible to those experiencing socio-economic hardship.
To further enhance these community efforts, the state leader highlighted the importance of unified execution between non-governmental organisations and statutory bodies.
Such collaborative efforts are intended to improve operational efficiency and foster a more competitive, resilient populace across both urban centres and remote settlements.
The meeting was attended by key executive members of Wanita HIKMAH, including Deputy Chairman I Dr Hajah Fatimah Bujang and organisation advisor Prof Dr Dayang Afizah Awang Marikan.
Senior administrative personnel from relevant state government bodies were also present during the discussion to facilitate future institutional alignment.
These officials included Puan Sharifah Zakiah Tuanku Haji Pauzi, Director of the Sarawak Women and Family Department, alongside Puan Nur Alina Abdullah @ Colliner Gohe, Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Women, Children and Community Wellbeing Sarawak.
The engagement reflects ongoing efforts within the region to integrate community-led advocacy with state welfare frameworks, driving socio-economic progress across all divisions of Sarawak.
