kuala lumpur: The Women in Trade and Industry (Witi) programme, an initiative of the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (Miti), aims to ensure that women entrepreneurs are not left behind in ASEAN’s economic development.
Minister Tunku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tunku Abdul Aziz said “Witty”, a collaboration between his ministry and the Malaysian Organisation for Women and Family Affairs (Hawa Malaysia), aims to enhance women’s capabilities and potential in the industrial and export sectors.
“This initiative is in line with what the ministry wants to do as ASEAN chair next year to ensure women’s participation in the economy at the ASEAN level,” he told reporters after the monthly meeting of MITI and its agencies and the inauguration of the Witi Council here today.
The implementation of this programme is in line with the Madani Policy and the National Women’s Policy to ensure that Malaysian women have equal opportunities and capabilities to advance in the global economy.
The Witi programme is set to be implemented nationwide in partnership with Hawa Malaysia, which was established in March 2023. Hawa Malaysia aims to address the barriers and challenges faced by women in the economic sphere through various programmes and initiatives.
The strategic collaboration between Miti and Hawa Malaysia aims to serve as a platform for women entrepreneurs to engage in the trade and industry sector, enhance their knowledge and capabilities, and support the nation’s economic development.
Miti provides training and support to women interested in going into trade and industry and implements the Witi programme. The initiative is open to various women groups including entrepreneurs, start-up owners, small business owners, youth, B40 and M40 groups.
Tengku Zafrul said women’s empowerment was key to achieving dynamic and inclusive economic growth.
“One of the missions of the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 is to ensure economic stability and inclusiveness, including women’s empowerment. Therefore, developing the capacity of women in the trade and industry sector through the Witi programme will not only help women realise their potential but will also propel the national economy to greater heights.”
The program also connects women entrepreneurs with lending institutions and grant providers to help them access the financing they need.
The program aims to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to succeed in trade and industry by exposing them to company formation, financial management, business strategy and fostering corporate culture.
Tengku Zafrul said Mithi is committed to continually support and empower Malaysian women in their efforts to contribute to economic sustainability. “With the implementation of this Witi programme, Mithi is confident that Malaysian women will achieve even greater success as they drive the global economy.”
