KOTA KINABALU: In a remarkable gesture of support for women’s empowerment and leadership, Deputy Chief Minister II and Minister of Finance, Datuk Masidi Manjun, announced a donation of RM50,000 to JCI Intan during the organisation’s Golden Jubilee celebration.
During his speech, Datuk Masidi emphasised the importance of nurturing women leaders and acknowledged the significant progress women have made across various sectors.
“Women have practically taken the world by storm,” he said, citing Sabah’s civil service as a prime example, where the state was the first in Malaysia to meet the minimum percentage of women in policy-making positions.
He also highlighted the role of JCI in inspiring women to reach the top, saying, “You inspire them to be good persons, good leaders, and to rise faster than men. The training provided by JCI has played a crucial role in empowering women to take on leadership roles, including CEOs, presidents, and policy-makers.”
To further support this momentum, Datuk Masidi announced a special allocation of RM50,000 to JCI’s leadership development initiatives, particularly aimed at fostering the growth of women leaders. “This contribution is intended to help train more women to become future leaders and continue the legacy of empowering women in our community,” he stated.
He also expressed hope that organisations like JCI will continue to inspire young women, not only in Malaysia but globally, saying, “It is my sincere hope that JCI Intan Kota Kinabalu will continue to motivate and support many more young ladies in their journey towards leadership.”
The donation underscores a broader commitment to gender equality and leadership development, aligning with JCI’s mission to empower youth and women to contribute meaningfully to society.
Meanwhile, the event organising Chairperson Chai Moi Len expressed her pride and gratitude for the journey, which spanned five decades of growth, challenges, and community service.
“After 50 years of existence, and many months of hard work, planning, and preparation, we are finally here to celebrate this important chapter in our history,” she said.
Chai credited the success of the event to the dedicated efforts of the organising committee, past leaders, and partners who contributed tirelessly behind the scenes. She also thanked the Ministry of Finance for their generous RM20,000 contribution, which helped fund the celebration, and lauded the support from community partners, media, and service providers.
A special highlight was the exhibition tracing JCI Intan’s journey, curated by renowned journalist Mary Chin. The event also featured gratitude for the support of Sabah’s Head of State, Tun Musa Aman, and guest of honour, Datuk Seri Panglima Masidi Manjun, whose presence added significance to the occasion.
Chai emphasised that the celebration was not only about reflecting on the past but also about inspiring the younger generation to carry the torch into the future. “It is about remembering those who contributed to our growth and appreciating the warmth and friendship that have united us all,” she said.
As JCI Intan looks ahead to its next chapter, the chapter’s members remain committed to community service and leadership development, celebrating their 50-year legacy of service and friendship.
The event was attended by several notables including former Chief Ministers Datuk Yong Teck Lee, Tan Sri Bernard Dompok as well as women leaders and previous JCI Intan Past Presidents.-BNN
