The contribution of women to national development is no longer merely complementary, but has become a driving force that strengthens the nation’s progress. Today, women not only stand shoulder to shoulder with men across various sectors, but have also proven capable of delivering outstanding and high-quality productivity.

Statistics show a noticeable increase in women’s participation in professional and managerial fields. This aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5), which aims to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls by 2030.

Four key sub-indices measuring this progress, which are economic participation and opportunity, educational attainment, health and survival, and political empowerment, have shown notable advancement through the achievements of women in this country.

Malaysia has also demonstrated serious commitment to women’s empowerment through its support of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). Fields once deemed exclusive to men, such as engineering, scientific research, and corporate leadership, are now being successfully pioneered by Malaysian women.

Even more inspiring is the trust now placed in women to lead government agencies, multinational companies, and civil society organisations. This transformation is more than just numbers on paper, but it represents a wave of change that is reshaping the nation’s leadership landscape.

A female researcher from Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT), Professor Dr Wan Iryani Wan Ismail, shared her inspiring journey during the “Women’s Dialogue” programme held in conjunction with UMT’s Women’s Day celebration.

“My success today is the result of unwavering support and sacrifice, especially from my family. My husband, who is also a lecturer, and I confront major challenges in balancing career and family life. However, with determination and discipline, we manage to overcome them,” she said with great enthusiasm.

She also stressed that women not only play a vital role at home, but also contribute through research that drives university development, empowers communities, and boosts the local economy.

“I still remember the time I went into the forest to collect research samples. It wasn’t easy, but seeing the results being utilised by the new generation of students made all the hard work worthwhile,” she added.

Meanwhile, Dr Sharifah Marzety Adibah Al-Sayed Mohamad proved that the spirit of a woman remains undeterred even in the face of adversity.

A former UMT lecturer, she is now a successful entrepreneur in the rose cultivation industry, despite having to leave her academic career due to health issues.

“My health declined, but my desire to succeed never faded. Rose cultivation is not only a source of income, but also a form of soul therapy. I believe that as women, we have the power to carve out our own paths to success,” she said passionately.

The stories of these remarkable women are proof that success knows no gender, but requires perseverance, courage, and ongoing support. May they serve as inspiration to all, especially the younger generation, to stride forward boldly and achieve even greater success.