KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor lauded the efforts and initiatives of Lions Clubs in Sabah to empower single mothers and to help
the underprivileged in the community.

“Your Women Empowerment: Empowering Single Mothers initiative led by 25-strong
Lions Clubs from Sabah for 20 single mothers under the auspices of the Sabah Single
Mothers Association has benefitted single mothers through support rendered and
learnings taught to them to find new ways to make a living.

“This collaborative effort serves as a powerful testament to the transformative impact
that collective action can have within communities,” he said at the opening ceremony of
the 62nd Multiple District 308 (MD308) Lions Convention 2024 at Magellan Sutera
Harbour Resort here today.

Minister of Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship, Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe
delivered his speech.

“I applaud your collaborative efforts and synergy in serving communities, reaching out
to many across various sectors including hunger alleviation, environmental preservation,
diabetes education, support for childhood cancer, and empowerment initiatives for single
mothers, reflecting an extraordinary dedication to making a difference. Well done,” he
said.

The Chief Minister believed by pooling resources, expertise, and passion, individuals
and organisations alike can amplify their capacity to address pressing social issues and
effect positive change.

Through initiatives like the women empowerment project, he said communities were not
only uplifted in the present but also equipped with the tools and inspiration to shape a
brighter future.

Hajiji said that fostering a culture of collaboration and empowerment leaves a lasting
legacy of resilience, progress, and optimism for generations to come.
“I am filled with admiration at the remarkable accomplishments of Multiple District 308.
Your commitment and dedication to service have seen some 18,507 activities carried out and positively impacting over 2.1 million individuals and chalking up an impressive 572,078 volunteer hours.”

Hajiji said the government recognises the invaluable role played by organisations like
the Lions Club in complementing its efforts and bridging gaps in service delivery.

“The government supports your unwavering commitment to service and humanity. Your
dedication to addressing critical issues such as vision impairment, youth empowerment,
disaster relief, humanitarian causes, diabetes prevention, hunger alleviation, childhood cancer support, and environmental conservation is truly commendable. More like-
minded organisations should emulate your efforts,” he said.-pr/BNN