The participants proudly displaying their certificates of participation together with the VIPs during the closing ceremony.
KOTA KINABALU: A one-year capacity building programme aimed at empowering women from the B40 income group in Kota Marudu and Kudat concluded today with a closing ceremony held in Kota Marudu.
The initiative, a corporate social responsibility (CSR) project by Hibiscus Petroleum Berhad in collaboration with Sedcovest Holdings Sdn Bhd, has successfully trained 20 women in sewing and tailoring skills to help them generate additional income and improve their families’ livelihoods.
The programme began with a five-day tailoring and entrepreneurship workshop on September 10, 2024, providing participants with practical training in garment-making as well as guidance on managing small businesses — equipping them with the tools to achieve sustainable income.
In her speech at the closing ceremony, Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Ministry Deputy Permanent Secretary II Moira David commended the collaborative effort and highlighted how the initiative supports the state’s socioeconomic aspirations.
“This programme is truly meaningful as it aligns with the Sabah State Government’s agenda to strengthen the people’s economy and empower B40 women, especially in rural areas,” she said.
“Our commitment is clear — to ensure quality human capital development, uplift women as pillars of family economies, and help them turn these skills into a sustainable source of income. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to Hibiscus Petroleum and Sedcovest Holdings for their invaluable contribution,” she added.
Also present was Hibiscus Petroleum Head of Operated Asset Sabah Edmund Ang, who congratulated the participants for their dedication and achievements throughout the programme.
“As a company that places strong emphasis on social responsibility, Hibiscus engages with communities in need through initiatives that aim to improve quality of life and enhance socio-economic wellbeing in the areas where we operate,” said Edmund.
“All 20 participants have successfully completed the training and have already begun generating income from the sewing skills they acquired. Their products include shirts, corporate attire and traditional garments — tangible proof that their effort and commitment have borne fruit. Congratulations and well done to all participants.”
Among those in attendance were Sedcovest Holdings General Manager Abdul Rahim Md Zain, and Hibiscus Petroleum’s Community and Government Relations Senior Executive Durie Rainer Fong.
